Winter wouldn't be winter without flu and colds. As long as you've got a reasonable CD4 count, these pesky infections shouldn’t cause too much trouble, but if a severe flu persists, you might want to pop to the docs. Pamper takes a look at some tried and tested remedies.
Many think that honey has health-giving properties, while Lemon juice contains vitamin C which many believe fights off flu, though there is no conclusive evidence to support this. Add a little whisky to honey and lemon and you have the classic hot-toddy.
'Relief' is the key word when it comes to commercial cold remedies as none hasten the infection's end. They all contain the same basic stuff; an anti-inflammatory (paracetamol, ibruprofen, so stick to the dose) to reduce discomfort and temperature, and a decongestant (phenylephrine) to help you breathe easier. Some contain caffine. Cheap ones (from £1.99 for 10 sachets) are as effective as brands.
ATchoo!!!!
Every self-respecting Jewish mother has
her own secret chicken soup recipe. Most involve boiling the hell out of a chicken
carcass, giblets and all, then chucking in some veg. Telma's Chicken Soup Mix
(£2.49 Waitrose) is an instant
version of this ‘Jewish penecillin’ Allegedly, it ‘inhibits the
clumping of neutrophils’
(white blood cells) that
cause congestion and
inflammation in colds.
Bunged-up? These
menthol-ish vapours
can get you breathing again. Olbas Oil (£1.99, Boots) has been around for years and is actually a Swiss blend of
7 essential oils, so
completely natural. Temporary relief,
but not a cure.
Keep yourself snug and seductive this winter in thermals that don't spoil your sex life.
M&S has an extensive range (right); smart trunks for the boys and strangely sexy long johns. For the girls, there’s a pretty range of cosy tops and briefs.
Prices from £6 to £17; available nationwide or www.marksandspencer.com
SLOGGI SENSATIONS have
produced a sexy range (left) made from a revolutionary fabric that
regulates body temperature so
you feel cool when its hot and
cosy when cold.
Prices from £5 to £15. Available from department stores nationwide.
Admirers of the male form will welcome the return of books and calendars featuring photos of the French Rugby team. The 2005 calendar and 'le making of' DVD are a must. Edinburgh-based 'gay-friendly' team Thebans RFC has followed in the Frenchies bootprints and produced their own fundraising calendar. Both feature 
team members 'uncovered' in tasteful poses and will have you wishing the months away so you can turn the page.
Dieux du Stade 2005 from Prowler and Clone Zone, £19.99. Thebans from www.thebans-rfc.co.uk £7.99
One of the best ways to keep warm this winter is to stay in bed and snuggle up to someone. But if you're sharing body heat you might want to avoid sharing body fluids. The new Freedoms Box 50 contains 50 Mates superstrong condoms and 100ml of Eros Bodyglide, one of the best lubricants around, all for £15.
Call 020 7530 3596 or visit www.freedoms-shop.com
