By Donna Marie Laino
Flu viruses can hit hard when you are not expecting it. Most people do not even see it coming. When it gets to your doorstep you just want it to be over. On average you can expect to be sick for up to a week without complications.
Here are 5 super tips to help knock out the flu:
1. Filter the air/open windows - Getting rid of germs in the air of your home is advisable especially during the winter when the windows are shut and this keeps all the germs in the house. Not only do we re-breathe the germs but as the flu is mostly a respiratory virus, we are spreading the germs of respiratory droplets. One cough or sneeze can spread respiratory droplets 12 feet into the air. The flu virus is spread by these respiratory droplets. Routinely open windows or have a good air filter system in your home.
2. Stay home from work or school - this will reduce the transmission of infection from person to person and you will not pick up any of their germs as well while your immune system is compromised. The last thing you want are complications or exacerbations and feel even worse. Have someone look after things at work or get your school work. If you decide to go into work you will feel even worse. The work place is not conducive for recuperation and rest.
3. Avoid stress - stress will lower your immune system and keep you from getting well sooner. Do not sweat the small stuff and delegate when you can. Stress hormones released into the body put the body into an acidic state. When the body is in an alkaline state this is the only time there will be health and balance.
4. Treat the symptoms - cough and cold remedies can make you more comfortable. Try to stay as natural as possible to avoid extra stressors to the body, chemicals and toxins. Stay away from bringing down the fever artificially. The body has a built in mechanism to combat infections including viruses. This mechanism works best during a fever. If you bring down the fever artificially with drugs then you take away the body's natural fight mechanism. Consider holding off if the fever is below 102.5 degrees. For ages less than 2 years old and over 65 years old consult a doctor.
5. Eat chicken soup - many people feel better with eating chicken soup when ill. Maybe it is because it reminds us of when our mothers made it for us and took good care of us. Chicken soup has lots of vitamins in the broth from the boiled vegetables such as beta-carotene which helps fight infection. Onions have quercetin good for anti-viral and anti-histamine properties. It also helps to detoxify the body. Try putting fresh ginger in the soup pot as well. This will help the anti-inflammatory process, reduce fever and headache.
Flu epidemics occur because most people's immune systems are not prepared for the onset of contagious disease. The key is to not get sick and support the immune system before the germs head your way. Consult your doctor as needed, cover your cough and stay hydrated. Next time you get bit by the flu bug, take the time to get well and rest. Use these tips to super charge your flu.
And now you are invited to receive 3 free body/mind/spirit tips on boosting your immune system at http://www.creatingbalanceinyourlife.com - You can visit Donna Marie's humor blog at: http://www.healingwithhumor.blogspot.com
Donna Marie Laino is a nurse, humorist, motivational speaker and success coach. She also uses humor as a holistic practitioner and Certified Laughter Leader to deal with life stress and health.
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