Strengthen Your Immune System and Prevent Flu
Flu can be very distressing; hence it is important to prevent flu from occurring. One of the keys to prevent flu infection is to boost the immune system. The immune system safeguards the body against diseases and other harmful invaders, including bacteria and the flu virus. The body’s capability to guard against these invaders is called immunity. A strong immune system is the best defense against infection and diseases; especially flu. Below are some recommendations to help strengthen the immune system and thereby prevent the occurrence of flu: Proper Hygiene to prevent the flu: Flu is highly contagious. It can be easily spread throughout a given population since it can be transmitted from person to person in several ways–through inhalation droplets, direct transmission and indirect transmission. Flu virus can go into the body through the air that we breathe; but more commonly, it is transmitted from one person to another by touching either a sick person directly or touching inanimate objects that are contaminated by the flu virus. Hence, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) have suggested some actions to prevent flu infection; these actions include repeated hand washing with antibacterial soap and water or with an antiseptic solution and the avoidance of touching face, eyes, nose and mouth especially in public areas.Healthy Diet: The food we eat largely affects our health and as well as our immune system. Meats, poultry, dairy, fruits and vegetables (raised organically and chemical-free) are some of the best “immune-enhancing foods”. Consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables are especially important; they contain high quantities of antioxidants and vitamin C which are identified to be immune-system boosters. Probiotic-rich foods also help the body fight off infections; and eating mushrooms have been proven to stimulate the immune system and enhance immune-competent cell activities. Coconut oil on the other hand contains lauric acid and monolaurin which can destroy lipid-coated viruses such as influenza because of its anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-protozoal properties. Adequate Sleep: Stable, adequate sleep is important to a healthy and well functioning immune system. Proper rest gives the body time to repair damaged tissues and renew energy stores. Research studies have revealed that sleep affects an individual’s hormonal balance, especially the hormones cortisol and melatonin. Having an ample amount of these hormones in the body is vital to a properly functioning immune system.Reduced Stress Levels is a great natural flu remedy: Stress can be associated to almost all diseases. Stress increases an individual’s risk to a wide variety of illnesses including heart illnesses, cancer, lung ailments and mental illnesses. Too much stress increases the risk for infection or viral and/or bacterial invasion as it causes damage to the body and weakens the immune system.