Flu, Be Gone!

Ladies and gentlemen, the flu season has arrived. Now would be the time to boost your immune system. Free flu shots are available at a variety of places but if you missed it, you’re going to want to keep scrolling down. Seriously, this is going to prevent making the toilet your best friend.

Just in case you’re in denial about having the flu because you hate visiting the doctor’s office, symptoms of the flu consist of a high fever, muscle aches, sore throat, dry cough and nausea. If you have any signs of the flu, please stay away from the public as it is known to be contagious.

The stomach flu is also highly contagious. I think I once caught it just by breathing the same air as someone with the stomach flu! Okay, that might have been an exaggeration but you get the point. When someone has the stomach flu, he or she will literally feel sick to their stomach. The stomach flu, besides from being drunk, is one of the main reasons your toilet becomes your best friend. If you have any signs of the stomach flu, which includes vomiting and diarrhea, stay in bed until you feel better. There is no cure for this virus.

However, there are simple ways to prevent the flu from entering our bodies and making our lives miserable.

First, wash your hands as much as possible. I even recommend becoming anal about it. Germs spread quickly even if you can’t see it. If your job entitles dealing with a lot of people and exchanging money, make sure you have some hand sanitizer close by. Money carries a lot of germs! Can you even imagine how many hands have touched the money you’re now carrying in your wallet? Also, avoid biting on nails. There are a lot of germs that can be infested there.

Maintaining what you consume can also boost your immune system and help prevent the flu. Organic foods, fresh veggies and fruits are great for building a stronger immune system. Taking vitamin C supplements will help in making your immune system stronger as well. Dr. Joseph Brasco from preventheflu.com also recommends trying to avoid starchy foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes and bread to insure “proper blood sugar control.”

Eating mushrooms or anything containing omega-3 fatty acids can enhance your immune system. According to Dr. Brasco, mushrooms have “immunostimulating properties, and can pack a ‘one-two punch’ for increased immunity.” Studies have showed that consuming these products can reduce the chances of getting a disease.

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. With work, school and exams, I know it must seem impossible to get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night. However, if you prioritize and manage your time wisely, you will be able to get the amount of rest your body needs. Proper sleep is the best cure to getting better because it’s free!

Take the time to relax. Stress can weaken the immune system. If you feel your brain is on overdrive, give yourself a few minutes to take some deep breaths. Roll your shoulders and lean your head back to relieve the tension in your neck.

Regular exercise can help prevent from getting the flu. Exercising keeps your body and mind active and healthy therefore increases the strength of your immune system.

On this note, keep yourself safe, healthy and flu-free. Kick your immune system up a notch, not only to prevent the flu but to live a longer and healthier life.