In the winter, we all dream of a relaxing weekend at home. Nothing destroys that fantasy quicker than flu season. Instead of a mug of your favorite tea, you’ll need a box of tissues and a bowl of soup you can’t even taste. Fortunately, you can protect your immune system and body from the flu.
Get Vaccinated
If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, do it. Getting vaccinated doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick, but if you do, the severity and length will be substantially decreased. Head to your local pharmacy or primary care doctor as soon as possible and get the vaccine.
Drink Up
Drink plenty of water. If you don’t like to drink cold water in the winter, substitute it for green or herbal teas with no added sugar. Drinking water flushes your body of harmful toxins and aids in the production of lymph, which circulates white blood cells, your body’s main line of defense against sickness.
Keep it Clean
Make sure to disinfect your home and your hands from time to time. Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer. Getting rid of germs left behind by others will decrease your chances of getting sick.
Sweat!
Getting lots of exercise is a great way to boost your immune system. Exercise inhibits the release of stress-hormones which weaken the immune system. Get at least twenty to thirty minutes of exercise daily, or an hour every other day.
Sleep!
Make sure to get plenty of sleep even if that means taking a few twenty minute naps. Sleep deprivation decreases function in the immune system and you’ll be at a higher risk for illness. Make sure to fall asleep on time. If you suffer from insomnia, try a natural melatonin supplement.
Take Your Vitamins
There are plenty of vitamins that play a role in your overall health. Vitamin C widely affects the health of the immune system. You can absorb Vitamin C by munching on citrus fruits, broccoli, kale or asparagus. Another excellent vitamin is B5 which can be found in avocados, corn, chicken, beef, egg yolks and whole grains. You can also take these vitamins through daily supplements.
Flu season is at its strongest from December through March, so bundle up and keep your hand sanitizer fully stocked. As long as you take care of your immune system and avoid close contact with people who are sick, you should be able to make it out of the season unscathed without a single day missed to illness.
Writer’s Bio: Jane Grates is a social media lover and an expert writer. She is currently handling different blogs related to health and fitness such as Runnerclick, Monicas Health Magazine and Janes Kitchen Miracles. She is also a total problem solver.
Leave a Reply