Cold and Flu Care

Prevention is the best medicine! Keeping your body healthy can be difficult especially during cold and flu season so here are a few tips to try to keep from catching something.

• Sleep! We all know how we feel when we don't get enough of it. The amount we need varies from person to person. Be mindful of your sleep and try to get a few more hours when you feel like you are coming down with something. Visit the National Sleep Foundation Website for more information. 
• Hand washing! According to the CDC hand washing saves lives (CDC:Handwashing). It also helps prevent the spread of germs so wash your hands. Hand washing is the best way to eliminate the spread of microbes! Singing the birthday song while washing your hands with simple soap and water helps to ensure you are washing for long enough.
• If you tend to be someone who "catches everything" take extra precaution and even where gloves in public places. 

If you feel something coming on:

• Wash your hands even more especially after coughing or sneezing. 
• Try warming socks best done for three nights in a row. See previous blog post. 
• Rest! Rest! Rest! Don't continue to push yourself when you're feeling rundown. Your body is talking to you and it's important you listen so your acute cold doesn't turn into something more chronic.  
• Early treatment is key to fighting off viral infections.  Pay special attention to infections that go directly to the lungs without a sore throat or congestion. These infections are sometimes more serious and must be treated strongly. Make an appointment to see your doctor if your usual home remedies are not working within a few days. 
• Foods to promote health are important such as a hearty soup base made of vegetables or chicken base. 
• Very important to stay hydrated to keep mucus thin if dealing with congestion.

Disclaimer:  Information is for health education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or medical condition. Always see your health care provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Information on herbs and supplements has not been evaluated by the FDA