With the cold weather approaching, everyone is naturally concerned about catching a cold or flu and staying healthy. Common cold and flu are caused by viruses being spread around.
However, just because its wintertime does not necessarily mean that you will get sick. It will all depend on the steps you will take to avoid these infections.
So what can you do to take better care of them? Since prevention is better than cure, this article outlines some of the most powerful ways you can protect yourself from the assault of cold and flu.
Here are the most powerful ways to prevent cold and flu.
Drink plenty of water
Plenty of fluids keep mucous membranes moist and healthy. These membranes defend the body against infections. Moreover, water eliminates toxins that accumulate in the body. It is recommended that you drink about eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy.
A proper diet and regular exercise
Arguably, these are the most effective ways to prevent acquiring the common cold and flu in the wintertime. Experts advise that a person eat foods that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Essentially, these foods help to boost the body’s defense during the cold weather. Regular exercises are also good at improving the immune system.
Keep warm to fight cold and flu
Wearing warm pieces clothing can help to avoid common cold and flu. After the mild autumn, it is advisable to dress warmly to avoid shivering which is the common cause of immune system deterioration. Besides, during the winter there are lower levels of sunlight, which negatively affects proper functioning of the immune system. You lose a lot of heat and therefore it is a good prevention idea to wear warm pieces of clothing.
Wash the hands frequently
Washing hands is another effective way to reduce the chances of being infected with bacteria and viruses. Although most infections are mainly transmitted in the air, bacteria which is known to cause cold and flu is transmitted through physical contact with public places such as doorknobs and faucet fixtures.
Routinely cleaning such vulnerable surfaces can help remove germs, which enter the body through vulnerable parts such as eyes, mouth and the nose. It is advisable to use disinfectants to kill germs in the vulnerable areas. Even though surfaces may look clean, infectious germs may still be present.
Enough sleep
Lack of enough sleep makes you more prone to cold and flu. It is recommended that you sleep for an average of eight hours. Moreover, your moods determine your ability to fight off infections and a lot of stress can make you vulnerable to cold and flu unlike a stress-free person.
Avoid huddling and heating
People tend to be much closer during the winter and this is one of the factors that contribute to spreading of these infections. Areas such as shopping malls, crowded trains and in-house gatherings have little ventilation hence making it more likely to catch a cold. Furthermore, central heating reduces your body’s defense system and affects the respiratory system by drying out the protective mucous in the nasal passages. It makes the air dry and stuffy causing sore throats and asthma. The best solution to this is to use a dehumidifier.
Use paper towels to dry the hands.
Unlike hand towels, which can accommodate bacteria and transmit them from one person to another, especially when they are used by multiple people, paper towels are a safe alternative for drying hands.
Avoid smoking
Smoking can aggravate the airways and increase vulnerability to common cold and flu. Therefore, for the sake of your health and that of your family, it is advisable to avoid smoking. Also, avoid dairy products, alcohol, sugar, and red meat
Take vitamins and probiotics
Taking a daily dose of multivitamin during the winter can help you avoid catching common cold and flu. Vitamins and probiotics help to maintain a healthy digestive system and improve the body’s natural defense mechanisms against bacterial and viral infections. There are natural supplements you could use and prevent common cold and flu. These include onions, ginger, sage and honey.
Stay away from people showing signs and symptoms such as sneezing and coughing. Although cold and flu can really be a bother in the winter, these tips can help you keep away from these ruthless infections.
