Does a cold affect the metabolism?

In fact, the metabolism runs at full speed when you have a cold. Of course: it has to activate the defense mechanisms, and this consumes energy. The metabolism speeds up again, especially when the temperature is high, as this boosts the self-healing process. Although you lose weight, this also weakens the immune system. Experts recommend eating regularly and with plenty of calories - if your appetite somehow allows it.

Take a hot bath: Does it help with a cold?

A hot bath with cold remedies can help to prevent the illness. However, if the infection is already present, a hot bath is of no use at all. On the contrary: it puts additional strain on the body. The same applies to sweating in the sauna.

Do I really have to strictly stay in bed?

That depends. If you have a high temperature or a real fever of 38 degrees or more, it's better to lie down and rest. In most cases, the body also needs a good night's sleep. However, if it's just a cold without a fever, then it's fine to walk around or go for a walk outside.

What home remedies really help with a cold?

Hot lemon certainly doesn't: the vitamin C is destroyed by the hot water, and the acidity of the citrus fruit burns the throat rather than helping. Hot milk with honey also destroys the honey's ingredients due to the heat. However, pure honey soothes the scratchy throat. Hot chicken soup is also good - but experts believe that it is only the soothing warmth that relieves the symptoms.

Can I do sport if I have a cold, and if so, how much and what?

No. Sport is not okay at all. On the contrary: sport can stimulate the viruses in the body to travel, and in the worst case this can affect the heart. The result can be inflammation of the heart muscle.

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