The best way to remain healthy during pregnancy is to follow a balanced diet routine and a healthy lifestyle. When you are pregnant, everything that happens to you affects not just your body but your unborn baby too. Unlike in the past when you’ve popped pills for cold and flu; pregnancy won’t permit you to buy over-the-counter medications unless prescribed by your doctor. Many medications cannot be taken when you’re pregnant. Hence, treating conditions like flu and cold doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Moreover, there are natural remedies for cold and flu that can be easily followed in pregnancy.

Immunity levels are slightly weak during pregnancy. A runny or stuffy nose along with other symptoms of flu can cause discomfort to pregnant women. While women are advised to drink plenty of fluids during this condition, honey lozenges and plenty of bed rest also helps to heal a simple cold and flu. Natural remedies for cold and flu can also be beneficial during pregnancy.

Here are a few effective natural remedies for cold and flu that can be prepared at home:

• Garlic
  Garlic works well to relieve cold during pregnancy. It has very high antibacterial, antiseptic and antiviral properties that help in fighting off bacteria and viruses. Garlic is also effective in lowering blood pressure, promoting blood circulation and maintaining cholesterol levels. The presence of allicin in garlic is also beneficial to boost immunity levels during pregnancy.
• Coconut oil
  Coconut oil is well-known for its anti-fungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. The presence of lauric acid in concentrated levels in coconut oil works well to eliminate viruses and to boost the immune system to fight off infections. It is safe to use during pregnancy too. Adding a spoonful of edible coconut oil to any hot beverage can provide you relief from cold.
• Ginger
  This wondrous herb and spice is a magic ingredient known for its healing properties. It warms the body and helps in blood circulation. It is also good for fighting infections caused by bacteria and viruses. Alternatively, it also relieves heartburn during pregnancy. A spoonful of crushed ginger, when boiled in water with lemon and honey is a natural drink that can help relieve cold.
• Apple cider vinegar
  A very safe and useful remedy, apple cider vinegar is sure to cure a cold during pregnancy. Vinegar has properties that creates a hostile environment for viruses, thus, killing them. The moment you have the symptoms of cold, you should start drinking a spoonful of apple cider vinegar. Along with warm water gargles, drinking a spoonful of apple cider vinegar is one of the best natural remedies for cold and flu during pregnancy.

Besides the above natural remedies, there are other alternatives too such as inhaling hot steam, drinking plenty of fluids, getting adequate rest, slightly rubbing the chest to reduce congestion and light exercises that can provide relief from flu and cold. However, checking with your medical expert before trying any remedy is always the most recommended thing to do.