Tips and Trick To Stay Healthy During the Flu Season
In a recent survey, a surprising 26% of American workers soldier on to work even when under the weather! While we can’t change their choices, we can empower ourselves to be proactive, not reactive. Let’s take charge of our health with these snappy immune-boosting tips:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure you get a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.Include foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers), vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified dairy products), and zinc (nuts, seeds, legumes).
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain mucous membranes, which are part of your body’s first line of defense.
- Get an Adjustment: (In office) An adjustment relieves nerve pressure, promoting better communication between your nervous system and immune system. A healthy immune system is more effective at fighting the flu.
- Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is crucial for immune function and overall health.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular, moderate exercise to promote good circulation and overall health. However, avoid overtraining, which can weaken the immune system.
- Probiotics: (In office) Consuming foods rich in probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut) can support a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a role in immunity. Pick some up at your next appointment!
- Honey and Lemon: Honey has natural antimicrobial properties, while lemon is high in vitamin C. Mixing them into warm water is a soothing and immune-supporting drink.
Herbal Teas: Certain herbal teas, like ginger, echinacea, and elderberry, have immune-boosting properties. Drinking them regularly can help.
DID YOU KNOW? While influenza viruses spread year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February.
- Garlic: Garlic contains compounds like allicin that have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Include it in your cooking for added flavor and health benefits.
- Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Add turmeric to your dishes or consider a turmeric supplement.
- Echinacea: Echinacea is an herbal remedy that may help boost the immune system. It’s available in various forms, including capsules and teas.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and lavender can be used in aromatherapy to support respiratory health and reduce stress.
- Proper Hygiene: Proper hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent infections. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating.
- Supporting Supplements included: Viracid includes a powerful combination of key nutrients and botanical extracts that provide support for immune challenges. Vitamin D to support your immune health.
Remember that while these tips and remedies can support your immune system, a well-rounded approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise is the most effective way to maintain a strong immune system. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Schedule your Chiropractic appointment today. Call 913.730.1800, or book an appointment online.