Monday, September 28, 2009

Natural Ways to Prepare for Flu and Cold Season

Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue all mean that Flu season is upon us. People are preparing to gather the items they can use to help stave off the flu and colds. A natural approach to prepare for the flu season can be beneficial.

The first thing you should do if you have or are trying to prevent a cold or flu is to increase your intake of vitamin C. This vitamin has many health benefits and acts as an antioxidant. If you do not take vitamins, now is a good time to get a supplement. This is one of the best natural ways to prepare for the season.

Get a diffuser and use antiviral essential oils. Not only does it smell good, it helps protect and heal. Some of the antiviral oils include lavender, clove bud, oregano, thyme, cinnamon. If you have caught the cold or flu, menthol, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils can help relieve symptoms of congestion.

There have been several studies that have concluded that eating a cup of low-fat yogurt daily can reduce your susceptibility to colds by 25 percent. Researchers think the beneficial bacteria in yogurt may stimulate production of immune system substances that fight disease. Phytochemicals which are plant and these natural chemicals in plants give the vitamins in food a boost. Eating lots of dark green, red, and yellow vegetables and fruits can be like wearing protective armor.

Try not to drink a lot of alcohol. It harms the liver, the body's primary filtering system, which means that germs of all kinds won't leave your body as fast. In addition alcohol dehydrates the body and takes more fluids from your system than it puts in.

Most important boosting your immune system is vital. The immune system is very complex but very simple to boost. Always drink plenty of water. This helps flush toxins and keeps your body hydrated. Get lots of rest and avoid stress whenever possible.

Stress depletes the immune system. Exercise helps build a strong immune system as well. These simple things can help build a stronger immune system which helps fight off colds and flu.

The best way to prevent cold and flu is simply washing your hands often. In addition try to avoid touching things in public places, like door handles. I am getting really good at not holding onto the banisters in public stairways and escalators. This spreads germs feverish and fast. So use common sense and wash your hands after you touch certain things that can be contaminated.

The cold and flu season doesn’t have to lay you out flat. There are a variety of things you can do to help protect you and your family.



source

No comments:

Post a Comment