 [ Symptoms ] How do you treat a Cold? [ Disease ] 1)Keeping hydrated is absolutely vital to help 'flush' out the cold, as well as to break down congestion and keep your throat lubricated. 2)Vitamin C is extremely helpful when fighting infection, so at the first sign of a cold be sure to increase your intake by eating plenty of berries, citrus fruits, papayas, broccoli and red peppers which will help keep you protected. 3)When it comes to combating a cold,Vitamin D is essential in helping to regulate immune response.