Ways To Avoid Getting Sick This Flu Season

Flu season is around the corner, as it tends to start in October. There are many ways you can prepare yourself to avoid getting the virus. Here are some ways to avoid getting sick this flu season.

Reduce Alcohol

Research shows that alcohol consumption can damage the body’s dendritic cells, part of the immune system. It also can increase your exposure to bacterial and viral infections. Alcohol reduces the strength of the immune system

Reduce Processed Foods

Having a poor diet will hinder your immune system. Eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins with help you maintain a healthy immune system. Studies show that eating a healthy diet helps boost cell-surface proteins that are necessary for a well functioning immune system.

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D levels lead to a weak immune system. Studies show that vitamin D can help increase the production of a virus-killing protein. Taking a vitamin D supplement can lead to fewer inflections. Eating foods rich in vitamin D like egg yolk and mushrooms can also increase your levels.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient, the body can’t produce or store it. Since the body doesn’t naturally produce zinc, the only way to get it is through food or supplements. Zinc helps keep the immune system strong. Studies have shown zinc may help to reduce the length of the common cold by 33%. It reduces the risk of infections and promotes immune response in adults.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid, that has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It acts as an antiviral with the ability to reduce the initial stages of a viral infection and reduce inflammation caused by infection. Quercetin is found in black and green teas.

Oregano Oil

Oregano is an herbal supplement that has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. With its strong antioxidant properties, oregano oil is used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Studies have shown that oregano oil may help reduce flu symptoms, such as body aches, or sore throat.

Sleep

Getting enough sleep is very important to keeping a strong immune system. When we sleep the body releases cytokines during long periods of sleep. Cytokines are a type of protein. It helps the body to fight infection by regulating the immune system.