It is that time of year again, when you are afraid to go outside, or in public for fear of getting sick. But, the fact is, you have to. You need groceries, your kids have to go to school, and you have to work. So, what can you do to bolster your defenses and dodge the flu? Try the following 7 tips:
1. Rest. Your body has to have proper rest in order for your immune system to function properly. So, if you want to dodge the flu, make a point of getting your eight hours of beauty rest each night, and if you are in sleep deprivation, consider a power nap on your lunch break.
2. Hydration. A body that is not functioning at its full capacity has a harder time fighting off illness, so help your body out by staying hydrated. The proper hydration means cell function is smoother, and you are less likely to get sick because toxins, bacteria, and the like are flushed out of your system far faster and easier.
3. Diet. What you eat will play a role in how healthy you stay during flu season. A body that has to work hard, is lacking nutrient, vitamins, and minerals is going to be more susceptible to disease, including the influenza virus. Dodge it by focusing on kick butt foods with anti-oxidants, and other powerful vitamins that arm your body with super powers for fighting flu. Good examples include fresh fruits and veggies. Focus on the citrus and the leafy greens. Then fill up on protein and fiber rich beans, whole grain breads, and some nuts, seeds, and other legumes.
4. Hand washing. It is the time of year when viruses are floating around. You do not have to catch them from someone, you can get them from something. So dodge the flu by making a point of sanitizing shopping carts, public keyboards, and your hands when you can’t do the rest. The fact is that if you wash your hands regularly, you are far less likely to infect yourself with a virus.
5. Avoid sick people. Ok, it may be obvious, but it is true. If you want to dodge the flu, stay at least six feet away from people who have the flu. (Side note: If you get sick, stay in so people don’t have to avoid you because you are avoiding them!) If you do come into contact with someone that is sick, be sure to wash your hands immediately afterward. If you are really concerned, wear a tight fitting face mask, and carry hand sanitizer.
6. Stay up on immunizations. A flu shot can help you dodge the flu, so get your yearly dose, if you can, and make sure you are all caught up on your immunizations at the same time.
7. Clean food well. Sometimes people think they have the flu, when really they have a food borne illness, so avoid both by cleaning your foods properly, and preparing them properly, and avoid foods you may have intolerance or allergy to.
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