- As winter arrives, the battle against cold/flu intensifies.
- Mastering the art of prevention involves a holistic approach, from regular physical activity and prioritising sleep to staying well-hydrated and maintaining personal space.
- Key strategies include getting vaccinated, optimising vitamin D levels, and practicing good hygiene habits to fortify immune defenses.
The winter season not only brings cosy evenings and chilly mornings but also the unwanted and dreaded cold and flu too. Embarking on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle begins with understanding and mastering the art of preventing these common illnesses like colds and flu.
The secrets to managing a healthy lifestyle and staying away from these pesky viruses lie from simple things like proper hand-washing to an essential nutrient-rich diet and simply giving your body the rest it needs.
7 Ways to Avoid Cold/Flu This Winter:
Adding Physical Activity to Your Routine
Engaging in regular physical activity not only contributes to overall well-being but also enhances the immune system. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance class, or a home workout routine.
Prioritise Sleep
Adequate rest is often underestimated but is important for a robust immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body the necessary time to recoup and regenerate.
Hydrate, Hydrate and Hydrate
Drinking more water is not only a sacred beauty regime but also flushes out toxins from your body and provides a much needed detox. Staying well-hydrated in the colder seasons is essential to avoid dryness in your nasal passages and throat, promote mucus thinning, and enhance blood circulation to combat viruses effectively. Opting for hot teas and chicken noodle soup also serves as excellent alternatives to maintain optimal hydration levels.
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Keep Things Personal
Stop sharing your personal items with anyone, be it a glass, cup or water bottle, everything should be kept separate for family members living under the same roof. Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for over 24 hours, and one sick family member could infect the whole household if precautions are not taken.
Get Vaccinated Against Cold/Flu
Annual flu vaccinations have proven effective in reducing the risk of flu-related complications and hospitalizations. Consulting with a healthcare professional and staying up-to-date on vaccinations adds an extra layer of protection to your overall health strategy.
Maintain Your Vitamin D Levels
Vitamin D plays a vital role in supporting a robust immune system, making it an essential component in the fight against seasonal illnesses. To enhance vitamin D intake, consider incorporating foods rich in this vitamin into your diet, such as egg yolks, mushrooms, salmon, canned tuna, and beef liver. Additionally, vitamin D supplements, containing D3, are readily available at local grocery stores or pharmacies. Including vitamin D in your daily routine can significantly contribute to fortifying your immune defenses and maintaining overall health.
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Practice Good Hygiene Habits
Maintaining good hygiene practices is essential for safeguarding your health and minimizing exposure to illnesses. Ensuring a daily shower routine contributes to overall cleanliness. Before handling food or inserting contact lenses, it’s crucial to wash your hands thoroughly. Extend the handwashing process to 20 seconds, ensuring you scrub under your fingernails for comprehensive cleanliness. When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose. For on-the-go hygiene, carry an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Have any more tips and tricks to avoid getting the cold/flu during winter? Let us know in the comments below.
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