Tips to Stay Healthy During the Cold and Flu Season
In my work as a life coach, I also suggest clients include a variety of flu-fighting and immune-boosting foods in their diets. Some of these are:
o A variety of dark green, red and yellow vegetables and fruits. These are packed with healthful nutrients. o Fresh, raw or lightly cooked garlic has strong, natural antiviral properties. o Green tea, like garlic, is known to improve immunity. o Cayenne pepper is filled with vitamin A and acts as a catalyst for herbs and vitamins. o It is important to supplement with yogurt or acidophilus pills after a round of antibiotics in order to replenish friendly bacteria that have been wiped out in the course of treatment. This could be relevant for people who get the flu and are given antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. o Echinacea is a popular cold and flu remedy especially if taken early, before symptoms worsen. o A number of people find vitamin C and zinc lozenges beneficial, especially zinc gluconate and zinc acetate.
Colds are Another Matter although the common cold is usually milder than the flu; it is still worth looking after. If you ignore symptoms and try to keep going as usual, it can turn into a worse illness. If you have underlying medical problems, it’s especially important to pay attention. Here are more ideas for self care:
o At the first sign of a sore throat, gargle with ½ teaspoon salt in warm water. o Saline nasal drops as well as steam inhalations with sage, chamomile leaves, menthol and eucalyptus can help clear sinuses. o Whenever early symptoms of a cold or flu appear, put two tablespoons each of dried sage leaves and whole cloves in a large pot and make a tea. Sipping it can soothe the throat and help fight infections. o Vapors rubs, hot water bottles and soaks in a warm tub with one to two cups of Epsom salts can provide steam to stuffed nasal passages and relief for sore aching muscles. o Lozenges with menthol, eucalyptus, honey and lemon may soothe an irritated throat. o Tissues with moisturizers can help prevent sore skin around the nose. Lip balm soothes chapped lips. o Traditional Chinese Medicine (herbal remedies and acupuncture) can effectively bring the body back into balance. o The following cold remedy is a family recipe that provides immune boosting and cleansing properties. I choose to drink this brew undiluted but it can be modified by adding water or reducing individual ingredients. 4 C. water 2 T. fresh or ground ginger ½ t. cayenne 1 whole head of garlic 2 quartered lemons (wash first, rind on) Maple syrup or honey to taste Simmer 20 minutes. Add ½ cup of mixture to ½ cup warm water or to taste.
