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HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE COLD AND FLU SEASON
We come down with a cold or the flu when causative viruses find their way into our bodies. They often come in contact with our skin but this does not make us ill.
The nose, the mouth and the eyes, or in other words the organs covered with mucus membranes, are the gates that viruses use. We are assailed by viruses every day but they fail to trigger an illness as our immune system does not allow it. Chronic fatigue and stress, however, weaken the immune system and it gives in to such attacks more easily.
Some of the factors that strengthen the immune system are diverse diet, regular training, sufficient sleep and stress control. You have nothing to worry about even at the height of flu and colds season as long as your immune system functions properly.
Experts recommend increasing the intake of foods that are known to prevent colds and flu. If you’re interested in natural ways of protection, go through the ideas listed below:
• Probiotic foods: here feature yogurt, sauerkraut, miso soup, kefir drinks and kombucha drinks. They are sources of the so-called benevolent, or friendly, bacteria that our bodies actually need;
• Oats and barley;
• All the representatives of the Allium family (garlic, any type of onion and leeks);
• Various fish;
• Chicken soup;
• Tea: particularly green and black;
• Sweet potatoes;
• Mushrooms.
Along with the vitamin-rich food and drinks, there are yet some other things to be done in order to maximize your immune system:
• Make sure you get the average hours of sleep every night. Sleep has restorative effects on the body;
• Work out some efficient stress-relieving strategies, such as meditation, travelling, reading or listening to something you’re fond of;
• Be emotionally attached. Research points out that communication and emotional involvement make most people suffer from fewer diseases;
• Change your attitude towards life. Learn how to be more optimistic. Cherish your days. Enjoy what you have achieved and be grateful for what you have. Happiness goes hand in hand with good health;
• Be more extrovert. Specialists in the field confirm that people capable of giving voice to their emotions are healthier;
• Laugh more. The amazing and rapid effects of laughter on one’s physical condition have been scientifically proven;
• Be more physically active.
We have so far talked about how to protect ourselves. Let’s now see how you can prevent your home from becoming a favourite place for viruses and microorganisms:
• Clean well the water taps;
• Keep the kitchen disposal flap clear;
• Laundry the welcome mat;
• Get rid of stuffed vacuum cleaner bags;
• Change dish towels and sponges;
• Empty your purse and handbag of anything unnecessary;
• Keep your PC, cell phone and remote control clean.
Another good idea is to always have a pen with you. You sometimes need to use one, right, for example at the bank, in a restaurant and so on, and public pens thrive with germs.
In conclusion, rule number one: always wash your hands! This still remains the commonest and most efficient way of protection against viruses and microorganisms. Warm water and soap should be your best friends. When in a public restroom, don’t touch the taps or the door handles after you wash your hands. Use your elbow or a paper towel instead. If you find this uncomfortable, there is yet another, even better option: hand sanitizer. It is not only at your disposal any time you need it, but also much effective!
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