Everybody has their own tricks and methods that help us take care of our health. Doctors are no exception. For instance, did you know why doctors eat ice cream in winter, carry two pairs of socks with them, and don’t miss an opportunity to take a nap in the middle of the day?

1. Hot Drinks Don’t Kill Viruses. Instead, Cold Ice Cream Is a Remedy for the Cold

People used to believe that alcohol could help “disinfect” the body by killing harmful microorganisms. Science has debunked this myth by proving the opposite: hot drinks can lower body temperature and thus create comfortable conditions that encourage bacteria and viruses to grow and multiply.

At the same time, cold treatment really works. Ice cream is soothing on sore throats, it can ease the pain, and reduce nasal mucosal swelling.

2. Carry a Second Pair of Socks

They must be warm. Put them on as soon as you feel that your feet are cold. Otherwise, the immune system will begin to intensely blood supply to this body part to keep it warm instead of focusing on fighting against the disease.

3. Use the Right Medical Masks for Protection

Medical masks can be different. If you buy a two-sided one, make sure to remember the following: if you are sick and don’t want to spread the germs, you need to wear a mask with its colored side out. If you’re healthy but want to protect yourself from viruses in public places, wear your mask with its white side out.

4. Get Rid of Dental Plaque

Bad teeth and improper dental care increase the chances of getting a cold or flu. The oral cavity has ideal conditions for bacteria and viruses to grow and reproduce, so don’t neglect professional care.

5. Get a Therapeutic Massage

Professional therapeutic massage increases blood microcirculation and raises your body temperature for a while, thereby helping your immune system destroy harmful microorganisms.

6. Use an Antiseptic for Your Phone and Simple Soap for Your Hands

Recent studies have shown that an antiseptic cannot be a full-fledged alternative to washing your hands. It makes more sense to apply it after this procedure. You can also use antiseptics to wipe your computer or a smartphone as there are more bacteria on it than on the toilet seat or the sole of a boot.

7. Take Care of Proper Nutrition and a Healthy Bowel

If you have a cold or flu, try to adjust your diet for a while: drink more fluids, eat more vegetables, fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits), and berries. They will help activate the defense mechanisms of your body and resist to infectious diseases as fruits and berries contain large amounts of vitamin C.

Pay attention to easily digestible carbohydrates such as buckwheat and oatmeal. To boost your immune system, you need protein, so feel free to enjoy cottage cheese, dairy products, eggs, and don’t forget the healing chicken broth. It is beter to give up on salty and spicy food for some time. You should also eat 5-6 small meals throughout the day.