“It is important to keep this in mind because everyone will have different lengths and severity of symptoms,” he says. “Other factors like living conditions, financial security, and ability to take time off work for rest all also play into how severe colds are, which is why different populations will suffer from colds longer and more frequently.” But most experts agree that when it comes to colds, focusing on prevention (and avoiding these stages altogether) is the best course of action. “Our lifestyle behaviors have major impacts on our immune systems,” explains Gillespie. “We know that people who exercise regularly (even just a daily walk) have fewer colds and flu. Getting adequate sleep is crucial for immune system strength, as is a balanced diet.” Smith adds that a healthy diet and regular exercise (without overexercising, which may actually increase susceptibility to sickness) can also shorten the duration of a cold. However, this needs to be a lifestyle that you live before exposure. Once you’re sick, you should prioritize rest over exercise. She has written twelve books and has had more than 2,000 articles published across various websites. Lindsay currently works full time as a freelance health writer. She truly believes that you can transform your life through food, proper mindset and shared experiences. That’s why it’s her goal to educate others, while also being open and vulnerable to create real connections with her clients and readers.
