How do I prevent getting my wife’s cold?

To prevent catching your wife's cold, here are some science-supported strategies shared by Andrew Huberman:

1. Nasal Breathing: Stay mainly a nasal breather, as it helps filter and humidify the air you inhale, reducing susceptibility to airborne viruses.
2. Distance and Hygiene: Maintain distance from your wife if she is coughing or sneezing. Encourage frequent handwashing, especially after touching the face or nose 1.
3. Outdoor Activities: Spend time outdoors, as being in open environments reduces the likelihood of virus transmission compared to confined spaces 1.
4. Humidified Air: Using a humidifier can help since dry air often associated with colder months can facilitate the spread of colds and flus 1.
5. Immune System Support: Strengthen your immune system with proper sleep, balanced diet, and managing stress. You can consider certain immunity-boosting compounds and maintaining healthy habits to increase your resistance to infections 2.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting infected.

To prevent colds, Andrew Huberman recommends several supplements known for their immune-boosting properties:

1. Zinc: Supplementing with zinc, especially in doses of 90-100 mg per day, can reduce the duration and severity of colds as well as possibly prevent them 1.

2. Vitamin D: Maintaining sufficient levels of vitamin D is crucial for immune health. Supplementing with 1000-2000 IU of vitamin D per day can help prevent colds, especially for those who are deficient 2.

3. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): This supplement boosts glutathione levels and has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of flu, which might also apply to colds. The effective preventive dosage is around 1200 mg per day, divided into two doses of 600 mg each 3.

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     Zinc Supplementation Insights

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     Vitamin D Insights

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     N-Acetylcysteine Insights

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     4

     Echinacea vs. Zinc

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     Immune System Essentials

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4. Echinacea: While not strongly supported by data, some people find echinacea helpful in the short-term for boosting immune function when feeling run down. However, it's not recommended for prolonged use, and its benefits specifically against colds are unclear 4.

In addition, ensuring adequate sleep, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management are foundational strategies to support overall immune health 5. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.