20 Simple Tips to Stay Healthy This Flu Season
20 Simple Tips To Stay Healthy This Flu Season 🤧
Flu season is here, but with a few simple habits, you can boost your immune system and protect yourself. As a functional wellness practitioner, I focus on supporting the body’s natural defenses through nutrition, lifestyle, and holistic health practices.
Here are 20 of my favorite tips to keep you feeling your best during flu season:
1. Wash your hands frequently – Soap and water are your first line of defense against germs.
2. Prioritize sleep – Your immune system needs rest to function at its best. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
3. Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins and stay energized.
4. Eat a nutrient-rich diet – Load up on colorful fruits and veggies, especially those high in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants.
5. Incorporate more garlic – Garlic has natural antiviral properties that can help ward off sickness.
6. Give Fire Cider a try – Fire Cider is a combination of apple cider vinegar, garlic, peppers, horseradish, and other herbs that amplify the natural killer cells. One approach is to take one tablespoon a day to prevent sickness and 1 tablespoon four times a day if you start feeling ill. Recipe from The Kitchn here or you can order it premade (one option from Amazon).
7. Get plenty of vitamin D – Low levels of vitamin D are linked to weaker immune responses. Try to get some sunlight or consider a supplement if needed.
8. Stay active – Regular exercise, even something as simple as walking, helps improve circulation and strengthens your immune system.
9. Reduce sugar intake – Too much sugar can suppress your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.
10. Take probiotics – A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system. Probiotics help maintain that balance.
11. Use a humidifier – Dry air can irritate your respiratory system. A humidifier helps keep airways moist and more resistant to viruses.
12. Try herbal teas – Teas like echinacea, ginger, or turmeric have immune-supporting properties and can soothe sore throats.
13. Limit alcohol – Alcohol can weaken your immune defenses, so try to cut back, especially during flu season.
14. Don’t skip meals – Eating regularly supports your body’s energy levels and keeps your immune system working smoothly.
15. Manage stress – Chronic stress can take a toll on your immune health. Take time to unwind, meditate, or practice deep breathing.
16. Diffuse essential oils – Oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree can help purify the air and support respiratory health.
17. Use hand sanitizer on the go – When soap and water aren’t available, keep a hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol handy.
18. Stay warm – Cold weather can lower your body’s defenses, so make sure you bundle up and stay warm.
19. Support your lymphatic system – Gentle movement, like walking, dry brushing, or lymphatic massage, helps your body flush out toxins and keep your immune system in tip-top shape.
20. Listen to your body – If you feel run down, give yourself the time to rest and recover before pushing yourself.
Flu season can be tough, but these small daily habits can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones healthy.
If you feel like you need some personalized support, schedule a complimentary connection call with me to discuss your unique needs and how I can help you get back to feeling your best!