Prepare your immune system to fight the flu
Wondering why you got the flu? It’s likely that you recently came in contact with some infected secretions or surfaces. A flu shot can be one of the ideal defenses against the virus since you now have needle-free vaccines. But even that can’t completely protect you from the flu.
Getting the flu can be troublesome. You have to deal with fevers, chills, aches, fatigue, and nausea throughout the season. Once you get the flu, it’s much harder to treat. That’s why it’s important to take simple and convenient steps that will prevent you from getting sick this season.
These simple steps including avoiding people who may have the flu as well as crowded and poorly ventilated areas in the winter. Some other methods include frequent hand washes, usually with soap and water.
The flu can last one or two weeks, or it can go even longer. So, what’s the best way to avoid getting sick? Remember: prevention is better than treatment. You can avoid the flu this season, simply by following these steps to improve your immune system:
Improve Your Gut
The organisms that live in the gut aren’t there just to help your body digest its food. These microbes also help control your metabolism, appetite, weight, and immune system. A stronger immune system requires you to have a healthy, properly-functioning gut. The gut actually makes up 70 percent of your immune system.
Probiotic organisms also help keep your gut running smoothly for better immunity. These are the “good” bacteria that minimize inflammation and help avoid infection. The can also minimize the severity of your flu. Studies show that fermented foods, like sauerkraut, kimchi, or kefir, can help these bacteria work better and maintain their energy and function.
Keep Away from Processed Foods
Having foods that contain antioxidants like vegetables and fruits, can boost everyone’s overall health. They help protect people from all sorts of health problems, including the flu, all throughout the year. Nutrient-filled foods, such as leafy greens, berries, fish, or sweet potatoes, have amazing anti-inflammatory benefits. They help strengthen the defenses of the body’s immune system.
That said, foods having sugar, gluten, and other processed foods aren’t as helpful. These things can dramatically reduce immune function. That’s why it’s helpful to start your day with a healthy smoothie. This will help you get your essential fats and other nutrients.
If you’re confused about the right things to put in your diet, you can always consult a nutritionist. Pillars of Wellness can help you get in touch with a professional nutritionist to care for your health needs and requirements. Just make a call to get your winter diet ready for flu season!
Have Some Zinc
Most people recommend vitamin C as the go-to supplement for any flu season because of its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and antibiotic effects. But there’s another supplement that can help relieve flu symptoms fast. A study shows that zinc can reduce the duration of your flu by quite a few days.
Due to zinc having strong immunity- and protection-boosting effects, it can stop the replication of the flu virus. Zinc can easily be found in foods like pumpkin seeds, nuts, beans or spinach. If you don’t like or can’t find such foods, a simple 25 mg supplement of zinc per day can be great during the flu season. If you want to get advice regarding supplement intake, contact Pillars of Wellness now.
Sleep and Exercise Can Do Wonders for The Flu
Who says exercise is only to lose a few pounds? Getting in some exercise during the winter season isn’t just a great way to burn calories and get some heat. It also helps minimize the risk of getting the flu. People with moderate exercise routines have fewer incidences of the flu. Exercise can boost the immune system by encouraging the body to repair itself and up the protection.
That said, you shouldn’t sacrifice your sleep for exercise. Getting plenty of sleep is an important component of immunity against the flu. You should get 7-8 hours of sleep to rest up your body so that it isn’t weak against any flu attacks.
Use Lavender Oil as A Natural Hand Sanitizer
Nowadays, many normal products like hand sanitizers have triclosan. This chemical can result in hormonal changes within the body. Any such changes could result in a weaker immunity which is risky during flu season. You should be wary of such products and instead opt for more natural solutions to sanitize against germs.
You’re better off relying on the conventional method of washing your hands with soap and water. This is less risky and keeps you effectively free of germs in the process. Or, instead of relying on manufactured toxins which make the skin susceptible to viruses, you can opt for a more natural solution.
Go for a few drops of lavender oil as a natural hand sanitizer. This is an essential oil that is great for preventing dry skin in the winters as well as viruses or germs collecting on your body.
Keep Surfaces Clean
Finally, it’s time to work on your surroundings. You can’t avoid germs when going out to cafes or work, but at least you can attack them at home. One of the simpler ways to get the flu virus is by touching infected surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes in the process. Phones, laptops, and desks are places that easily collect germs and bacteria.
So, keep such surfaces clean by using substances like tea tree oil. These have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that help treat psoriasis, fungus, and acne. You can even make your own natural cleaner. Mix equal parts of vinegar, water and several drops of essential oil, and you’re good to go.
Pillars of Wellness is a multi-disciplinary clinic that provides different services. These include holistic nutrition, aromatherapy, yoga, naturopathy, and much more. If you’re looking to get the right preventive advice and treatments for flu therapy, book an appointment now.
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