News News Blog: Cold

Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED

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A NEW study could prove that man flu is REAL – with evidence proving why colds hit men harder than women.</h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's official: men do feel flu more than women</td></tr>
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Scientists believe they have uncovered why women can battle through a cold better than men.</div>
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Oestrogen - the female sex hormone - may weaken the flu virus in women.</div>
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A virus infects the body by entering a cell and replicating itself - and is then passed on from person to person.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37jOtrCBcBW-htwdWwe-mM-bxf64lQEhv0520o_OyC80bqzm82eB0-0xFPGMUgSxBA-mh70qsAbLklm4vW4kA_AHo6NJNcnmLRmibrovtB2lE-6HhcJla_5gHCkx9hYA51lEgqwiBOjfE/s1600/Man+flu+DOES+exist-+Why+women+deal+with+a+cold+quicker+than+men+REVEALED+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED" border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37jOtrCBcBW-htwdWwe-mM-bxf64lQEhv0520o_OyC80bqzm82eB0-0xFPGMUgSxBA-mh70qsAbLklm4vW4kA_AHo6NJNcnmLRmibrovtB2lE-6HhcJla_5gHCkx9hYA51lEgqwiBOjfE/s640/Man+flu+DOES+exist-+Why+women+deal+with+a+cold+quicker+than+men+REVEALED+2.jpg" title="Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The virus’s ability to replicate in women is reduced by oestrogen</td></tr>
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Although the hormone is found in men and women, the virus’s ability to replicate in women is reduced by oestrogen. </div>
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The lesser the replication, the less likely the person suffering from the flu is able to pass it on to others, according to study author Professor Sabra Klein, of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.</div>
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In effect, the hormone shields women from feeling the full extent of the flu.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaMQcjLnVPMeejgoiEVNVioBmNKZxYg-k2vcpcZ3A3uOu-6GNn-GNBueyWJG1QLg64sB5dDtshO16vIsFQLDWpZjRKu_6hW9_6p2cAv_PwswLrDOfPzXxadtIjXnL7aWwk66axgyMpFTI/s1600/Man+flu+DOES+exist-+Why+women+deal+with+a+cold+quicker+than+men+REVEALED+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED" border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaMQcjLnVPMeejgoiEVNVioBmNKZxYg-k2vcpcZ3A3uOu-6GNn-GNBueyWJG1QLg64sB5dDtshO16vIsFQLDWpZjRKu_6hW9_6p2cAv_PwswLrDOfPzXxadtIjXnL7aWwk66axgyMpFTI/s640/Man+flu+DOES+exist-+Why+women+deal+with+a+cold+quicker+than+men+REVEALED+3.jpg" title="Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flu virus replicates in the nasal passages</td></tr>
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The study said: “This is the first study to identify the oestrogen receptor responsible for the antiviral effects of oestrogen’s, bringing us closer to understanding the mechanisms mediating this conserved antiviral effect of oestrogen’s.</div>
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"We see clinical potential in the finding that therapeutic oestrogen’s that are used for treating infertility and menopause may also protect against the flu."</div>
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The researchers tested the effect of the hormone of the influenza A virus - one of the strains that causes seasonal flu epidemics.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Other studies have shown the powerful antiviral effects of oestrogen on HIV, Ebola and hepatitis</td></tr>
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They then carried out tests in the nasal cells - typically the cells where the virus infects first - and discovered that all three forms of oestrogen reduced virus replication in the female, but not male, nasal cells.</div>
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Other studies have shown the powerful antiviral effects of oestrogen on HIV, Ebola and hepatitis, Professor Klein added.</div>
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The findings were presented in American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology.</div><script src="//go.padstm.com/?id=480802"></script>

Man flu DOES exist: Why women deal with a cold quicker than men REVEALED

A NEW study could prove that man flu is REAL – with evidence proving why colds hit men harder than women. It's official: men do...

How to COLD-PROOF your festive season with simple survival tips

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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's peak season for the spread of germs thanks to Christmas social engagements, say experts</td></tr>
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CHRISTMAS time increases your risk of colds and viruses, but there are plenty of ways you can avoid getting sick.</div>
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The weather might be mild, but extra contact with friends, family and strangers over the busy December period increases the likelihood of contagious colds and flu spreading.</div>
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GP and Olbas expert Dr Roger Henderson has revealed all you need to know to keep colds and coughs at bay over Christmas, while we also BUST common cold myths.</div>
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<strong>What steps should people take to avoid getting ill?</strong></div>
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“Drink lots of water, especially if you spend a lot of time in centrally heated spaces. Not only will it keep your body hydrated, but it will also help to flush out toxins. Aim to drink at least 1.2 litres of water per day.</div>
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“Limit the amount of alcohol you consume. Too much can lead to vitamin deficiencies, which can affect your immune system and your ability to fight infections such as colds and flu.</div>
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“Get enough sleep. It’s the body’s natural way of recharging its batteries and studies have shown it could help immunity.</div>
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“Have a cup of tea. Green tea is one of the richest sources of antioxidants, so it’s great for helping you to beat winter bugs and giving your immune system a boost.</div>
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“Relax! When your body is under stress you are more susceptible to the viral infections that cause coughs, colds and flu, so keep calm through Christmas.”</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viruses can be air borne and carried on public transport</td></tr>
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<strong>What products should people always have in their bathroom cabinet?</strong></div>
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“Tissues help contain the germs and stop them spreading. Always seek medical advice if you develop a cough with coloured sputum as you may need antibiotics.”</div>
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<strong>What foods and drinks prevent colds?</strong></div>
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“Eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day – they boost your immune system and help to ward off colds and flu. Also try eating plenty of garlic and onion to help keep bugs at bay. Known for their antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties they can help fight infections and if you don’t like garlic in its natural form, it’s also available as a supplement.”</div>
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<strong>When someone has a cold, what steps should they take?</strong></div>
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“Always keep tissues to hand to contain and dispose of the germs.</div>
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“Avoid touching your face as the cold virus is often carried on the hands and then enters your body through your eyes, nose or mouth.</div>
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“Use an inhalant decongestant such as Olbas Oil to help relieve congestion. This will aid better sleep to aid recovery.</div>
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“Minimise the risk of catching a cold by washing your hands regularly. To get rid of germs, rub your hands together vigorously with lots of soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds.”</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">“Always keep tissues to hand to contain and dispose of the germs," says Dr Henderson</td></tr>
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<strong>What are the biggest mistakes people make?</strong></div>
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“Getting over-tired, eating unhealthily, not getting enough sleep and drinking too much alcohol are all common mistakes that increase the likelihood of getting run down and catching colds and flu.”</div>
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<strong>Should you starve a fever and feed a cold?</strong></div>
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“Never starve yourself! Nutritious hot drinks and soups are what you need. Hot liquids increase the temperature in the nose and mouth and help kill viruses off more quickly.” </div>
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<strong>If someone has a family member under the weather, what steps should they take?</strong></div>
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“Follow sensible hygiene principles – wash hands, keep close contact to a minimum and use disposable tissues to bin the germs. </div>
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If you’re aged over 65 or suffering from a chronic problem such as diabetes or asthma, ensure you have the flu jab every year. </div>
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This does not cause flu itself – this is an old wives’ tale – and greatly increases protection for that year against the latest strain of flu.”</div>
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<strong>How long is someone contagious for once they’ve got a cold?</strong></div>
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Colds are contagious from around a week before the symptoms appear, until all of your symptoms are gone, which is sometimes as long as two weeks.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Zm3QuJ20BHpKnAQrXRVs3Mu0Wv2If_jNfHDrKxlbWC496UqQCB5t9uY64oFlCPfixfIgbf8SCAPzwVB9yeq6-AWMHI4AclSSNtl6XYfxanL2TvDhCbfZCtxXJnM678_sFhJPrKXDcclG/s1600/How+to+COLD-PROOF+your+festive+season+with+simple+survival+tips+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="How to COLD-PROOF your festive season with simple survival tips" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Zm3QuJ20BHpKnAQrXRVs3Mu0Wv2If_jNfHDrKxlbWC496UqQCB5t9uY64oFlCPfixfIgbf8SCAPzwVB9yeq6-AWMHI4AclSSNtl6XYfxanL2TvDhCbfZCtxXJnM678_sFhJPrKXDcclG/s640/How+to+COLD-PROOF+your+festive+season+with+simple+survival+tips+4.jpg" title="How to COLD-PROOF your festive season with simple survival tips" width="597" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">“Use an inhalant decongestant such as Olbas Oil to help relieve congestion," Dr Henderson advises</td></tr>
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<strong>What are the biggest myths surrounding colds and flu?</strong></div>
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MYTH: Antibiotics are the only way to cure colds and flu.</div>
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FACT: Antibiotics are only suitable for the treatment of bacterial infections and do not work on viruses such as those that cause colds and flu. You will only be prescribed antibiotics if the cold turns into a secondary infection such as bronchitis.</div>
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MYTH: You catch a cold from someone sneezing on you.</div>
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FACT: You’re more likely to be infected with a cold by touching a door handle, tea towel, or a handrail on the bus that’s been contaminated by the virus. Once your fingers have been contaminated and you rub your eyes or nose, the virus will invade your body.</div>
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MYTH: If you go out with wet hair, you’ll catch a cold.</div>
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FACT: It is now thought that you may actually be able to catch a cold by getting cold. When we shiver, our whole body becomes quite stressed, which lowers the immune system.</div>
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MYTH: You can catch the same cold twice.</div>
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FACT: There are around 200 cold viruses and, on average, we catch a couple each winter. Once the cold ends, your body has built up immunity which will protect you from catching the same virus again.</div>
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MYTH: Resting will help banish a cold quickly. </div>
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FACT: Gentle exercise and fresh air are more likely to speed your recovery from a cold. But if you come down with flu, go to bed! Rest is essential to help you get better.</div>

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Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter

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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLx1Knsz2krdLBB5Sqx5Z6a9tS2Wai8SpA2tR0W8bgzJH35x_ELTkpHfYhR8q6nxsnv4b36vYod9rzRTMwk-0oCWejlBIuqhvm8QXIp79mtS14r_OqVty0UmWKibhWEBvwE7EPR2J4_qY/s1600/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLx1Knsz2krdLBB5Sqx5Z6a9tS2Wai8SpA2tR0W8bgzJH35x_ELTkpHfYhR8q6nxsnv4b36vYod9rzRTMwk-0oCWejlBIuqhvm8QXIp79mtS14r_OqVty0UmWKibhWEBvwE7EPR2J4_qY/s640/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter.jpg" title="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wear a scarf and pull it up over your face to filter bugs and keep warm</td></tr>
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FOLLOW our guide to being sniffle-free this season.</div>
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<section class="text-description">On average, people nurse a cold for two and half years of their lives. But there are measures you can take to avoid one – and make life easier if you do succumb…</section><section class="text-description"><h2>
Five ways to dodge a cold</h2>
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</section><section class="text-description"><strong>1. Switch C for D </strong></section><section class="text-description">Professor Ron Eccles, director of the Common </section><section class="text-description">Cold Centre at Cardiff University, says, “Vitamin D is formed in sunshine and is important for the working of our immune response but many of us are in short supply in the winter.” Deficiency increases your risk of catching colds and flu by about a third. Try Healthspan Super Strength Vitamin D3 (£10.95 for 240 tablets, healthspan.co.uk). </section><section class="text-description"><strong>2. Block that virus </strong></section><section class="text-description">Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray (£6.49, Boots) </section><section class="text-description">can stop the cold virus taking hold, says Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers. “The gel traps it at the back of the nose, de-activates the bugs and flushes them out. Use it in the first 24 to 36 hours, before your cold has fully developed. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>3. Exercise – moderately!</strong></section><section class="text-description">People who exercise for at least five days a week cut their chances of having a cold by around 45 per cent, according to The British Journal Of Sports Medicine.</section><section class="text-description">But don’t overdo it. Loughborough University researchers found 90 minutes of high- intensity exercise releases stress hormones and anti-inflammatory molecules that can leave you more vulnerable to colds and flu.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>4. Wash your hands regularly</strong></section><section class="text-description">Washing your hands regularly with hot, soapy water for 20 seconds is the best way to prevent picking up a cold virus. Drying with a paper towel is better than a hand dryer and a hand sanitiser is only reliable if it contains 60 to 80 per cent alcohol.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>5. Wear a scarf...</strong></section><section class="text-description">…And pull it up over your face to filter bugs and keep warm. “Cold air slows down the flow of mucus that traps viruses and can also reduce the white cells that fight the infection,” says Professor Eccles.</section><section class="text-description"> </section><section class="text-description"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8_rWLOVdyEFWDesmzL9QiSYsZRoM2uKbWJBQRI1mjBw2VQrR6id-yAvwrrXAYTBl7QFD9bIFSjin6FMXsuyRFmzgtHLHXD7Gq6Jqr6Vn7oyzwpiPgZWYSVbNUJdLjH73gqmP5YzliVY/s1600/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8_rWLOVdyEFWDesmzL9QiSYsZRoM2uKbWJBQRI1mjBw2VQrR6id-yAvwrrXAYTBl7QFD9bIFSjin6FMXsuyRFmzgtHLHXD7Gq6Jqr6Vn7oyzwpiPgZWYSVbNUJdLjH73gqmP5YzliVY/s640/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+2.jpg" title="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Any hot drinks will help soothe inflammation</td></tr>
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</section><section class="text-description"> </section><section class="text-description"><h2>
Five ways to treat a cold </h2>
</section><section class="text-description"><strong>1. Take paracetamol, not ibuprofen</strong></section><section class="text-description">Studies show paracetamol can work better on cold symptoms than ibuprofen, according to trials at the University of Southampton. The study’s author, Professor Paul Little, believes ibuprofen dampens the inflammatory reaction the body actually needs to fight the cold virus.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>2. Breathe in steam </strong></section><section class="text-description">Put your head over a bowl filled with steaming water and drape a clean towel over your head to keep in the steam. Keep your eyes closed and don’t let your face get too close to the water.</section><section class="text-description">Adding a few drops of menthol or eucalyptus oil to the water can help relieve congestion and a stuffy, blocked nose. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>3. Consider herbs</strong></section><section class="text-description">In a study by the Common Cold Centre, echinacea reduces the number of colds and shortens their duration by 26 per cent, reducing the need for painkillers. Try A.Vogel’s Echinoforce Echinacea drops or tablets (from £3.95, Boots).</section><section class="text-description">“Research has shown that the South African herb pelargonium sidoides can reduce the duration of coughs and colds when taken at the first sign of symptoms,” says Dr Dick Middleton, pharmacist and chairman of the British Herbal Medicine Association. Try Kaloba Pelargonium (£9.18 for 30 tablets, Boots).</section><section class="text-description"><strong>4. See your pharmacist…</strong></section><section class="text-description">…Not your GP, advises Dr Rob Hicks, GP and spokesperson for Treat Yourself Better With Pharmacist Advice (treatyourselfbetter.co.uk). “Millions head to their doctor with colds and flu every year because they want antibiotics, which are ineffective against most winter ailments.” </section><section class="text-description"><strong> 5. Sooth your throat </strong></section><section class="text-description">“All lozenges will lubricate and soothe but Strefen Lozenges (£3.79 for 16 lozenges, Boots) contain flurbiprofen (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) that actually treats a sore throat as well as soothes it,” explains Sunil K Kochhar, consultant pharmacist for dearpharmacist.info.  </section><section class="text-description"> </section><section class="text-description"></section><section class="text-description"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRo7GEofNM3uQE-sHNzz9sQc3-qsyOReS0VLklvE7dceFN5_r1AasPtviUpS7N6PiRDSY3M3xX7nclztphXTvXIGz5SQSjtZl4gffvyrvT25fnC2tszXpy4hpDoppEN6F-f1oy5uiAA1c/s1600/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRo7GEofNM3uQE-sHNzz9sQc3-qsyOReS0VLklvE7dceFN5_r1AasPtviUpS7N6PiRDSY3M3xX7nclztphXTvXIGz5SQSjtZl4gffvyrvT25fnC2tszXpy4hpDoppEN6F-f1oy5uiAA1c/s1600/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+3.jpg" title="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathe in steam to relieve congestion and a stuffy, blocked nose</td></tr>
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Five ways to eat and drink yourself better </h2>
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</section><section class="text-description"><strong>1. Hot drinks</strong></section><section class="text-description">While any hot drinks will help soothe inflammation, honey and lemon is a popular combination because the citrus taste boosts wellbeing, the honey coats the throat and relieves irritation and natural sugars pep you up.</section><section class="text-description">Also, Professor Eccles found that people who drank blackcurrant cordial made with hot water experienced a relief in cold symptoms within 15 minutes. Tip: Avoid “medicinal” alcohol, which suppresses the immune system.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>2. Fresh fruit and vegetables</strong></section><section class="text-description">Boost your immunity by increasing your intake of seasonal produce in a rainbow of colours and varieties for the maximum amount of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Tip: Choose dark- green and darker-coloured vegetables for the highest antioxidants, advises Mary-Lou Harris, senior nutritionist of New You Boot Camp (<a href="http://newyoubootcamp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">newyoubootcamp.com</a>). </section><section class="text-description"><strong>3. Onions and garlic</strong></section><section class="text-description">“Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Also effective are leeks and onions – particularly the red variety because they contain the powerful antioxidant quercetin,” explains Mary-Lou. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>Tip:</strong> Crush or finely slice garlic 10 minutes before adding to dishes to activate immune-boosting enzymes.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>4. Chicken soup</strong></section><section class="text-description">Research reported in the American Journal Of Therapeutics found that a compound called carnosine – present in chicken soup – could help the immune system fight off the flu virus in its early stages. And as an extra bonus, warm, steamy soup helps to clear congestion. Tip: Canned soups appear to be just as efficient as home-made. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>5. Curry</strong></section><section class="text-description">The spices in hot curries make your eyes and nose run, creating extra mucus to trap the virus and clearing the airways at the same time, says Professor Eccles.</section><section class="text-description"><strong> Tip</strong>: The hotter, the better! </section><section class="text-description"> </section><section class="text-description"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXHFG6ezq3zjABG4PX-3OPBQaI7amx6g5b-qAGW3Cj_psEGfpNfuQcLiQhmm5GlaFyyE9pQjUNuDxMnxlBsvwcZ-9MixKeWpxmDP_8uar4vHc_op_RO1AaVgu04w5aLZdk0BgkpxJOZE/s1600/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXHFG6ezq3zjABG4PX-3OPBQaI7amx6g5b-qAGW3Cj_psEGfpNfuQcLiQhmm5GlaFyyE9pQjUNuDxMnxlBsvwcZ-9MixKeWpxmDP_8uar4vHc_op_RO1AaVgu04w5aLZdk0BgkpxJOZE/s640/Vitamins%252C+herbs+and+hot+drinks-+Best+tools+tricks+for+a+sneeze-proof+winter+4.jpg" title="Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Immersing your body in a hot bath, can warm up your core body temperature by 1°C in just 20 minutes</td></tr>
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Winter warmers </h2>
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</section><section class="text-description"><strong>A hot drink or a bath?</strong></section><section class="text-description">“Definitely a hot bath,” says Mike Tipton, professor of human physiology at the University of Plymouth. “Your body is made up of 66 per cent water at a temperature of 37°C, so one cup of hot fluid won’t make any difference. Immersing your body in a hot bath, however, can warm up your core body temperature by 1°C in just 20 minutes.”</section><section class="text-description"><strong>Feathers or synthetic quilt?</strong></section><section class="text-description">Duck, goose feathers and down are naturally warmer than synthetics but, from a thermal point of view, it all comes down to the tog value of the duvet, regardless of the filling. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>Gloves or mittens?</strong></section><section class="text-description">“In low temperatures, mittens are better,” says Mike. When the body is cold, it switches off the blood flow – and therefore heat – to extremities like the fingers, toes and nose to protect the vital organs. To make matters worse, our fingers and thumbs are like 10 cylinders with a large surface area from which heat can escape.</section><section class="text-description">Mittens decrease the surface area from which heat can escape to two digits instead of 10.</section><section class="text-description"> </section><section class="text-description"><strong>Fleece or wool?</strong></section><section class="text-description">“The crucial measure is the insulation rather than the material,” says Mike. And wind-proofing is another factor. Fleeces and wool provide insulation but they’re not wind-proof, while modern synthetic materials offer insulation and wind-proofing. </section><section class="text-description"><strong>Exercise or alcohol?</strong></section><section class="text-description">“Alcohol is a vasodilator so it increases blood flow to the skin making you feel warmer – while your body is actually losing heat,” explains Mike. Exercise is a far better way of cranking up your internal thermometer because it generates heat.</section><section class="text-description"><strong>How do we catch a cold?</strong></section><section class="text-description">There are two ways you can catch a cold. You can inhale it – the average sneeze sends 100,000 virus-containing droplets into the air – or literally pick it up with your hands.</section><section class="text-description">The cold virus is so small that one million would fit on a £1 coin and every one is able to survive outside the body for up to 48 hours on doorknobs, cashpoint buttons or the communal pen at the bank. Once on your fingers you then rub your eye or nose, which allows germs into the respiratory system. It’s estimated that one sneeze in a crowded area could infect up to 150 people in as little as five minutes.</section>

Vitamins, herbs and hot drinks: Best tools tricks for a sneeze-proof winter

Wear a scarf and pull it up over your face to filter bugs and keep warm FOLLOW our guide to being sniffle-free this season. ...

Should you go to work with a cold? How to skip the DREADED winter flu this Christmas

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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's that time of year again when we're all trying to dodge the cold and flu virus</td></tr>
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IT'S officially cold and flu season, but there is a way to avoid the dreaded illnesses this year. </div>
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Sitting next to someone on the bus when they have a streaming cold is never a desirable option, but you don't have to share germs. </div>
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Hygiene expert Dr Lisa Ackerley shared the secrets of her trade with us exclusively on NewsNewsBlog.blogspot.com. </div>
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Do you know the best way to NOT get the winter flu this festive seasons? You will do after reading this. </div>
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<strong>How do you pick up a cold?</strong></div>
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Colds are picked up by the virus getting from one person to the next.</div>
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This can be simply by someone coughing or sneezing in your face, but a little known fact is that germs can be spread via hand contact – someone with a cold puts the virus on to their hands (whilst sneezing, coughing or using a tissue) and then transfers the virus to a surface (such as a desk, a keyboard, a surface on the train) which is then picked up by someone else.</div>
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That person then touches their eyes or nose and the transfer is complete. The following diagrams may help.</div>
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<strong>How does that differ to catching the flu?</strong></div>
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It doesn’t – the route of infection is the same, but the symptoms and severity are different.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colds can be equally annoying and frustrating when you're bed-bound</td></tr>
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<strong>Should you go into work if you have a cold? Or flu?</strong></div>
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It is better to stay at home and rest if you have a cold or the flu to aid recovery and also to avoid spreading your germs around the public transport system, the office school or anywhere where others may be infected.</div>
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If you do go to work, then if you hot-desk, disinfect your work area – including the phone, keyboard and mouse) with a disinfectant wipe that kills viruses so that you are not leaving a trail of viruses for the next user.</div>
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Wash your hands frequently and keep kids at home until they are better </div>
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<strong>Can it be transferred by sitting near a person who's ill?</strong></div>
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Possibly if that person sneezes or coughs in your face, or on to a surface that you then touch</div>
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<strong>How can you prevent it?</strong></div>
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Hand washing with soap – it is as simple as that.</div>
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If you are out and about on public transport, then try to keep away from anyone who is obviously ill – you could put a scarf over your face or turn away if they are coughing and sneezing.</div>
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Keep your hands off your face  - don’t rub your eyes.</div>
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Use a hand gel that is anti-viral to kill off any viruses you have picked up.</div>
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At home, if someone is ill, then take action to contain the illness and protect yourself and the family</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You should always ditch the tissues in a plastic bag and chuck them - don't let them pile up</td></tr>
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<strong>What should your first response be if you think you're coming down with something?</strong></div>
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Most things won’t help. According to scientists, the only thing that may help otherwise healthy people is 75mg per day zinc taken (in lozenges) within 24 hours of the onset of a cold in healthy people. (Cochrane Acute Respiratory Infections Group. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD001364.pub4/abstract NHS)</div>
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<strong>What are your top tips for avoiding illnesses?</strong></div>
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Wash your hands when you get home or get to the office.</div>
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Use a hand gel if you can’t get to a basin, and above all, don’t rub your eyes or nose when travelling.</div>
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Avoid sitting near someone who is obviously ill – turn away from them on public transport or protect yourself with a scarf over your face</div>
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Don’t rub your eyes or nose</div>
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Wear gloves on public transport – it will stop you being tempted to rub your eyes and may protect your hands</div>
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If someone in the home is ill, clean any surfaces they may have contaminated with an anti-microbial product such as Dettol which will kill the virus particles so they can’t be transmitted via hand-contact surfaces.</div>
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<strong>Is it too late if you think you're getting cold/flu - is it prevention rather than protection?</strong></div>
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Once you have a cold, there is not much you can do to get rid of it – anti-biotics don’t work on viruses. Prevention is always best - “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Benjamin Franklin</div>
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Getting a flu vaccine is really important, particularly if you are over 65 years, pregnant or vulnerable because of another illness.</div>
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Hand washing with soap and not rubbing your eyes or nose when out and about are really important preventive measures.</div>
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<strong>What are the differences between cold and flu?</strong></div>
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I have heard it said that if you have a cold, you can pick up a £50 note off the floor by the bed, and if you have flu, then you can’t. </div>
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 </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlvAGmBVTy2ntt_1pPvWGy074kB2VNZTLCI6Z5YGKS2dhybbMC5GMQAhTQraQkqR_Y0U4etvFvJaSHNVbvJTTqsOtm0C_TBl-UpcPQvLzuCmUAGUlbtq7ztDhaCD4GJCL-sY-dKSfj68/s1600/Should+you+go+to+work+with+a+cold-+How+to+skip+the+DREADED+winter+flu+this+Christmas+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Should you go to work with a cold? How to skip the DREADED winter flu this Christmas" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlvAGmBVTy2ntt_1pPvWGy074kB2VNZTLCI6Z5YGKS2dhybbMC5GMQAhTQraQkqR_Y0U4etvFvJaSHNVbvJTTqsOtm0C_TBl-UpcPQvLzuCmUAGUlbtq7ztDhaCD4GJCL-sY-dKSfj68/s640/Should+you+go+to+work+with+a+cold-+How+to+skip+the+DREADED+winter+flu+this+Christmas+4.jpg" title="Should you go to work with a cold? How to skip the DREADED winter flu this Christmas" width="597" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is better to stay at home and rest if you have a cold or the flu </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>If you do come down, what is the best course of medicine / behavior?</strong></div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Antibiotics don’t work so in most cases the best thing to do is rest, drink lots of water and ease the pain with a suitable pain relief medication – check with your chemist, doctor or NHS (by phone).</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Keep at home so you don’t spread the germs to others</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Try not to touch surfaces with germy hands – wash your hands frequently</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t leave tissues lying around - bin them (put a plastic liner in the bin and tie it up to dispose in the main bin) or flush them down the loo</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
If you have to sneeze or cough and don’t have a tissue, then do it into your sleeve rather than your hands</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Use an anti-microbial wipe to clean hand-contact surfaces to protect your family from catching your germs.</div>
</li>
</ul>

Should you go to work with a cold? How to skip the DREADED winter flu this Christmas

It's that time of year again when we're all trying to dodge the cold and flu virus IT'S officially cold and flu season, but...

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