Ugh, colds. They’re like that uninvited guest who shows up at your door, eats all your snacks, and refuses to leave. And let’s be real, nobody really enjoys them. One day you’re vibing, sipping coffee like a boss, and the next you’re sneezing into your shirt wondering if your nose is secretly plotting against you. I’ve had my fair share of colds—probably more than I’d like to admit—and over time, I kinda figured out some tricks that might actually help you shake them off faster. Spoiler: there’s no magic wand, but some things do work better than others.
Hydrate like your life depends on it
I know you’ve heard this a million times, but seriously, water is your BFF when you’re down with a cold. Your body is basically a tiny factory working overtime to fight off that virus, and it needs fuel—aka fluids. I’m talking water, herbal teas, broths, even warm lemon water with a bit of honey if you’re feeling fancy. Fun fact: sipping warm liquids can help loosen mucus, which somehow makes you feel like a tiny superhero fighting germs. And if you try to just “push through it” with coffee alone, well… you’ll just end up jittery and still congested.
Sleep like a teenager who just discovered TikTok
Sleep isn’t just “nice,” it’s basically the secret weapon. Your immune system goes full-on boss mode when you’re snoozing. I remember last winter, I tried skipping sleep thinking “I’m too busy for this cold,” and surprise, the cold stuck around like a clingy ex. Science-ish stuff backs it too: research shows that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to catch colds. So, embrace the nap, binge a show, or just lie there scrolling TikTok until your brain hits reset.
Soup isn’t just a meme
Chicken soup might feel like grandma-level advice, but hear me out—it’s actually pretty legit. Warm soup soothes your throat, hydrates, and the steam can clear up your sinuses a bit. Plus, if you’re anything like me, making soup is an excuse to be lazy and eat comfort food. Bonus: when you post a cute pic of your soup on Insta, it’s like, “Look at me, I’m sick but still aesthetically winning.”
Vitamin C and zinc – maybe, maybe not
People online swear by vitamin C and zinc, and honestly, they might help a tiny bit if you’re quick enough. Think of it as giving your immune system a little pep talk. But don’t go crazy—loading up like it’s a magic potion won’t suddenly make the virus pack its bags. My personal rule: a bit of orange juice, some kiwi, or a zinc lozenge and chill. Sometimes I overdo it and end up with a stomachache, which is just hilarious in retrospect.
Steam baths are underrated
This is one of my favorite hacks. Fill up a bowl with hot water, lean over it, and drape a towel over your head. Basically, you’re turning your bathroom into a tiny sauna. The warm steam can help open up blocked nasal passages, and if you’re feeling fancy, toss in eucalyptus oil. Warning: don’t accidentally burn yourself like I did once. There’s something satisfying about sitting there watching TikTok or reading while your nose slowly unclogs—pure bliss.
Don’t underestimate your pantry
Sometimes the cold hits and all you want is junk food, which is fine, but your pantry might actually hold hidden weapons. Garlic, ginger, honey—these little things aren’t going to make the virus vanish instantly, but they can soothe your throat or give you that little immune boost. I once made a “ginger tea” that was basically just boiling a root I found in the fridge, and my throat felt way better after a cup. Plus, there’s that tiny sense of accomplishment—“look at me, adulting while sick.”
Move a little if you can
This one’s tricky, because sometimes all you want is to curl up in a blanket and watch reruns of Friends. But light movement, like stretching or a slow walk around the house, can help your circulation and boost your mood. Your immune system likes it when your blood moves. Last time I tried it, I ended up dancing to some random TikTok song for five minutes, felt ridiculous, but hey, my sinus pressure eased up.
Avoid the usual traps
Cold meds are fine, but don’t expect them to make the virus disappear overnight. And if you’re thinking “I’ll just push through with work and caffeine,” you’re basically asking your body to multitask like it’s a superhero movie montage—it won’t end well. Also, social media is full of “miracle cures” (I’m looking at you, random TikTok trends) that are mostly placebo. A bit of humor: I once saw someone claim inhaling onions cures a cold… let’s just say, I did not try it.
When to see a doc
Most colds are harmless and pass in a week or so, but if symptoms get crazy—like a super high fever, chest pain, or something just feels off—don’t be a hero, get checked. Better safe than trying to tough it out while your body screams at you.