While we all anticipate celebrating the holidays around this time of year, they can be ruined by catching a few unsettling germs. With the change of weather, our immune systems struggle to work efficiently and a perfect breeding ground for nasty cold and flu viruses is created. Combine the two and you have a recipe for disaster. We never know what each cold and flu season will bring, which is why it’s more important than ever to keep yourself protected.
Both colds and the flu are spread easily from person to person through airborne germs and from dirty surfaces. Since they’re respiratory illnesses, they can cause a big disruption to our lives. With varying severity, you could be out of commission for days – or even longer. To avoid this, and reduce the spreading of germs, make sure you stay home from work or school if you’re sick, and cover your nose and mouth if you’re around others. If you need to be out and about, consider using a face mask to protect yourself from germs or help reduce spreading germs to others. Remember, you can still be contagious before any symptoms present themselves.
If you do notice any cold or flu symptoms, call your doctor and schedule an appointment. The flu is the most contagious during the first three to four days, so it’s important to get diagnosed and take the proper precautions right from the start. To help reduce your chances of getting sick, here are a few tips on how to stay healthy during this year’s cold and flu season.
- Wash Your Hands
Germs spread quickly from surface to surface, which is why it’s so important to make sure to wash your hands regularly—especially after using the bathroom and before eating. To reduce the chances of germs making you sick, avoid touching your face and carry around some hand sanitizer to use as needed.
- Cover Your Mouth
If you’re sick, help others stay healthy by covering your mouth when in public. If you want to take extra precautions, or know you’ll be around someone who is already sick, wear a face mask or cover your nose and mouth with a scarf. As a courtesy, always cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough to reduce the spread of germs.
- Listen to Your Body
If you’re starting to feel worn out or you become fatigued easily, listen to your body and take it easy. Take a few extra minutes to slow down your day and consider reducing your to-do list or asking for help. If you feel like your symptoms indicate the cold or flu, call your doctor and give your body the rest it needs to fight off the virus.
- Get Plenty of Rest
Even if you’re not already sick, getting plenty of rest and high quality sleep will help keep your immune system working efficiently. When you’re sleep deprived, your immune system weakens and you’re more susceptible to illness. Aim for roughly 7-9 hours of sleep every night and stay consistent with your sleep schedule.
- Stay Hydrated
Even as the weather becomes colder, our bodies still need water to stay hydrated and healthy. If you’re well hydrated, your immune system works better and you have less of a chance of getting sick. To make sure you’re getting enough water this cold and flu season, try brewing up your favorite tea and carrying a thermos around with you when you leave the house.
- Eat a Balanced Diet
Similarly, your body needs healthy fuel to fight off bacteria and viruses. Try to eat for nutrition and heal your body from the inside out. Aim for a strong balance of different colors of vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Increase the amount of foods you eat with natural vitamin C or talk to your doctor about adding supplements.
- Exercise
Regular exercise is great for your body, but when you increase the intensity every now and then, your immune system will get stronger. Try to get at least 30-45 minutes of moderate to intense exercise in 3-5 times each week. Not only will you stay healthy, you’ll feel less stressed, have more energy, and be more positive throughout your day!
- Consider Nutrient IV Therapy
Finally, if you need a little extra boost, consider Nutrient IV Therapy. Nutrient IV Therapy uses intravenous delivery systems to give your body that extra dose of vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals needed to keep your immune system strong. It’s a natural and healthy way to ensure that you stay feeling your best, no matter what happens. Nutrient IV Therapy also restores your hydration, reduces the severity and intensity of an illness, and helps to prevent a number of diseases. We recommend scheduling a preventative consultation for the best results.
At Atlas Health Medical Group, we offer Nutrient IV Therapy to help your body absorb the extra vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals you need during cold and flu season and beyond. Not only will this treatment keep you feeling your best, it also works to reduce stress levels and boost your natural energy. Through intravenous treatments, you’ll be sure to stay healthy during this year’s cold and flu season.
Atlas Health Medical Group is a network of naturopathic medical doctors that offer innovative treatments, including stem cell therapy, bio-identical hormones, nutrient IVs, and more. We work with the highest standards of individualized care so our patients receive the results they want and need. Visit our website today to learn more, or give us a call at (480) 648-1534.
