How to Fight the Flu Naturally
By Sandy Schroeder
As the seasons roll ahead, all of us want to build up our immunity and reduce the chance of catching the flu. Check with your doctor on getting a flu shot and take extra steps to keep you and your family healthy. Here are a few tips from Cosmopolitan and Newsmax to help.
Wash Your Hands Often
Teach your kids to wash their hands frequently wherever they are. Soap and water is best. Alcohol-based hand cleaners and wipes help if soap and water are not available.
Stay Clear of Coughers and Sneezers
Stay at least 3 feet from sneezers and coughers to avoid small droplets in the air that may carry the flu virus. It could be allergies, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Keep Hands Away from Mouth, Nose and Eyes
You may touch a contaminated surface, but you could avoid the flu by not transmitting viruses to the mouth, nose and eyes.
Wash Hands After Touching Shared Surfaces
At work and out in public, ATMs, light switches, keyboards, elevator buttons and dozens of other surfaces may be contaminated. Wash your hands after touching them. Lather for 20 seconds and rinse under water. Air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
Avoid Sharing Food
Avoid community coffee pots and microwaves at work and encourage kids not to share snacks or lunches at school.
Get Enough Sleep
Keep your immune system in shape with 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. If you have congested nasal passages, sleep with an extra pillow under your head.
Fight Infection with the Right Foods
Chili peppers help open nasal passages. Bananas and rice may ease diarrhea or an upset stomach. Green tea contains phytochemicals to fight bacteria and diarrhea. Chicken soup uses a rich broth to fight infection and serve as a comfort food. Add garlic cloves to boost the bacteria-fighting power.
Fight Congestion with Steam and Salt Water
Hot steamy showers help keep nasal passages open. Salt water rinses break up nasal congestion and remove bacterial and virus particles.
Lower Stress As Much As Possible
When stress strikes at work or at home, the immune system takes a hit too. Do your best to let go of stress with hobbies, music, deep breathing and exercise.
If you or someone in your family comes down with the flu, monitor symptoms and stay in touch with your doctor.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lawrenceville, Ga.