Having to go through the flu is never a pleasant ordeal. From as little as minor discomfort due to a stuffy nose to a life threatening fever, symptoms of the flu often vary substantially from person to person. This seasonal influenza is caused by viruses that cause discomfort and pain through the infection of the respiratory tract, and can be easily transmitted between individuals. Nevertheless, flu season doesn’t have to put you into a panic if proper action is taken to both avoid and prepare for it. Here are 7 scientifically proven ways to best prepare your body for the flu.
The Flu Shot: A Yearly Shot to Keep Healthy
To best reduce the likelihood of being infected by the flu, the yearly flu shot is considered as one of the best preventive measures available. Commonly used by individuals who are considered to be at higher risk of the flu and overall healthy individuals alike, these anti-viral shots prescribe protection against the most common strains of the flu, including influenza A and influenza B. By injecting the vaccination, the body develops anti-bodies which will decrease the likelihood of getting the flu and passing it onto others.
An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
The absorbing of diverse vitamins and minerals through one’s diet actually substantially helps in developing a strong immune system. Fruits such as the apple have strong amounts of vitamins A and C which help in creating immunity against the flu, and lessening the strength of the symptoms during it. A suggestion would be to take a daily multi-vitamin during flu season in enhancing your immune system for a better safeguard against the flu.
Keep Up a Fair Exercise Routine
While exercising anywhere from half an hour to an hour per day has been proven to boost immunity against the flu, excessive exercise has been scientifically proven to provide the opposite effect. Jogging, walking, or cycling are all great ways to exercise, but remember not to overdo it! Once body becomes physically over-stressed, infection to the flu can become easier.
Sleep to De-stress
As mentioned previously, a physically over-stressed body may become more susceptible to sickness, especially the flu. Sleeping on a daily basis anywhere from 7 to 9 hours per night is a great habit to keep your body fighting at its peak against infection. When feeling symptoms of the flu, try sleeping even more so your body can solely focus on healing itself rather than on other tasks.
Keeping Sanitary One More Wash and One Less Touch
Germs and bacteria are everywhere, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them make you sick. Be sure to wash your hands frequently during the day, especially before and after meals. While adults generally remind children to do this action, they often forget to fulfill this simple habit themselves. When in a public washroom, avoid using reusable cloth dispensers and instead use automatic hand-dryers and paper towel to prevent touching bacteria right after washing. Furthermore, try to not touch your own body parts with your hands, especially the rubbing of the eyes to prevent germs getting in.
Prevent Close Contact From the Display of Symptoms
When people tell you they’re sick or they’re displaying symptoms of the flu, avoid any close contact with them at all. The flu is normally extremely contagious- it can be transmitted through the air through actions such as sneezes or coughs, or by physical contact. While this suggestion may seem easy to do with the outside world, the problem is dealing with family members and individuals who may be in your physical vicinity on a daily basis. Try your best in avoiding anything they have use such as towels, computer keyboards, and utensils.
Keep Yourself Hydrated No Matter What
Whether you’re trying to strengthen your immune system before the flu season hits or you’re already infected, always keep yourself hydrated. Hydration through the means of drinking water or liquids such as Gatorade gives your body electrolytes, which are essential for cells and organs to function capably. Symptoms of the flu generally result in the loss of electrolytes through actions such as sweating from a fever or vomiting from a stomach virus, so keep replenishing yourself with electrolytes that are lost in the process.
Take care of your body before you get sick. While the flu can be unavoidable in some circumstances, there are general steps you can take to prepare for the upcoming flu season. By following these tips, you can develop a stronger immune system that’ll help strengthen your body against the flu and prevent common methods of contagion.
This post is courtesy of the team at WellStreet Urgent Care – the number one team for urgent care Alpharetta. Thanks for reading!