12 Tips for Preventing and Coping with the Cold and Flu Season

Are you worried about catching a cold this winter? Do you want to get better and forget all about that nasty flu? If your answer to either one of these two questions is yes, do not hesitate to keep on reading this article.

In the paragraphs below, you will find no less than 12 tips, destined to help you prevent and cope with both cold and flu. Keep in mind that the simplest measures are usually the most effective; also, avoid crowds, as this where microbes are most easily transmitted. So read on to find the 12 home and herbal remedies to prevent the cold and flu.

#1 Tea with lemon & honey

If you want to stay healthy all winter and throughout the year, make sure to drink at least one cup of tea per day. The most recommended variety is green tea, as it is rich in antioxidants and it can protect against the common cold, as well as the flu.

Add a little bit of honey and a slice of lemon – honey has potent antimicrobial properties, while lemon is rich in vitamin C. A cup of tea is great if you are already coming down with something, allowing you to get better in a short period of time.

#2 Physical exercise

When it is cold outside, we tend to resume a sedentary lifestyle – unfortunately, this only makes us more vulnerable in the face of infections. On the other hand, regular training allows us to sweat and eliminate toxins; moreover, it strengthens our entire body, including the immune system.

So, even if it is winter and you do not feel like hitting the gym, you should work out. There are a lot of easy exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home, so give them a try.

#3 Protein-rich diet

One of the main reasons for which we catch a cold or get down with the flu is our low immunity. This cold season, if you want to strengthen your immune system and avoid such health problems, a protein-rich diet might be just what you needed.

Choose foods that contain a lot of proteins, including eggs, dairy products (especially yogurt) and fatty fish. Omega-3 fatty acids have a lot of benefits to offer on the side, stimulating the proper functioning of vital organs and ensuring a better state of health.

#4 Sleep

During the winter season, our bodies are practically attacked by viruses of various sorts. The immune system suffers a lot from the lack of sleep, finding it harder to face off all of these attacks.

A sure way to strengthen the immune -system and protect yourself against such problems is to sleep at least 7-8 hours per night. When we sleep an adequate amount, the body produces natural killer cells, which work to attack viruses and keep us healthy.

#5 Clean hands

Our hands are filled with germs, especially since we touch a lot of doors and other potentially-infected objects. Moreover, we shake hands with other people, who might already suffer from a cold or the flu.

Apart from using a hand sanitizer, it is recommended to wash our hands with antibacterial soap and warm water. The hands should be thoroughly dried, as moisture can favor the development of microbes.

#6 Not too many clothes

If you want to prevent the cold and flu during holidays, pay attention to the clothes you are wearing. Do not overdress, as this will only cause you to sweat profusely. In turn, this will increase the risk for the problems mentioned above. In the situation, you have caught a cold or you are coming down with the flu, it goes without saying that too many clothes will make matters worse. Dress warm, choosing clothes from breathable fabrics and shoes that will keep your feet dry.

#7 Sanitize your smartphone

It might sound like an absurd thing to do but, in reality, your smartphone contains more germs than you can imagine. Given the fact that you keep it in your pocket, but also on counters or on other potentially-infected surfaces, it makes sense to sanitize it on a regular basis. You can use sanitizing wipes, in order to reduce the germ infestation.

#8 Healthy diet

Whether you are trying to prevent a cold or you want to cope with its symptoms, a healthy diet is a must. Of course, the same principle is valid for the flu, especially since its symptoms are more severe than those of the common cold.

A healthy diet should contain plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, as these are rich in vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients. Prepare meals that are colorful and you will get all the protection you need against such health problems.

#9 Personal hygiene

When it comes to personal hygiene, the most important thing that you can do is avoid sharing any of the items that fall under this category. This can include toothbrushes, towels or cups. If someone you know is sick, using the same objects of personal hygiene can increase the risk of contamination. Pay attention to cups, glasses and eating utensils; protect yourself and you will have no problems this winter.

#10 Herbal remedies

Herbal remedies should become a part of your daily routine during the winter. One of the most recommended solutions is Echinacea, which can strengthen the immune system and provide efficient protection against the common cold, as well as the flu.

Given its antibacterial and antiviral properties, it can help you get better faster, in case you are already sick. The recommendation is to take Echinacea for 6-8 weeks, as a longer administration is not that effective.

#11 Water

A sure way to protect yourself against the cold or the flu is to drink plenty of water. When you drink adequate amounts of water, the kidneys are busy, working to remove all toxins accumulated within the body.

Moreover, if you already have a cold, drinking water will make the mucus less dry and thick. This means you will be able to expel bacteria and/or viruses much easier, feeling better in a shorter period (basically, you will flush out the infection).

#12 Probiotics

Numerous studies have confirmed the connection between the health of the gut and the proper functioning of the immune system. If you want to stay healthy this cold season, consider taking probiotics (as supplements).

These are friendly bacteria and they support the health of the microflora, which in turn will strengthen the immune system. The natural defense mechanism of the body will be turned out, with a reduced risk of catching a cold or coming down with the flu.

In conclusion, these are some of the best ways to prevent and cope with the cold and flu season. You can also visit your physician and talk about the flu vaccination, as this can guarantee enhanced protection against such problems.

Keep in mind that the risk of catching a microbe is higher when it is moist outside. Also, avoid crowded places and try to maintain a safe distance between you and those who are already sick (sneezing particles can travel up to six feet). Carry a hand sanitizer and use it on a regular basis, as disinfected hands reduce the risk of infection quite a lot.

References:
https://www.naturalnewsblogs.com/flu-fighting-foods-get-feeling-better/
https://www.livescience.com/60166-avoid-cold-flu-this-year.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-86521/Ten-ways-avoid-colds-flu-winter.html

 

Author Bio:

Sophie Addison is an enthusiast blogger and writer. She is very passionate about writing general health and fitness. She has posted articles on skincare problems, joint pain treatment, weight loss and woman’s health. Apart from work she likes gardening and listening to music. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.