It's that time of year, the time of year when people are coming down with the flu.
Everyone around you is sniffling and sneezing, and utterly miserable.
If you are wanting to avoid getting sick with the flu again this year I recommend you put these tips into practice.
You may be surprised when you make it through winter and into spring without one sniffle.
1.
Eat Nutritiously.
The essential power players include: high-quality protein, such as fish, lean meats, and beans, needed to help build white blood cells (the body's defenders against viruses); brightly colored fruits and veggies, which provide immune-boosting antioxidants; and omega-3 fatty acids (good sources include fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed) to keep the immune system balanced.
2.
Exercise.
Exercise can keep you from getting sick by stimulating the immune cells that target cold infections.
A University of South Carolina study found that people who walked or did other moderate activity for 30 minutes most days averaged only one cold per year, while less-active folks reported more than four colds per year.
3.
Keep the Air Moist.
Lower humidity and temperatures help the flu virus spread.
Humidity, on the other hand, kills the virus, so keep the air at home warm and moist.
Use a humidifier to maintain around 50 percent humidity and set room temperatures to at least 69 degrees F.
4.
Get Plenty of Zzzzzs.
According to a study published in 2009 in the Archives of Internal Medicine those who slept at least 8 or more hours of sleep a night were three times less likely to catch a cold then those who slept less.
That's because even minor sleep deprivation suppresses immune function.
5.
Wash your hands.
Hand-washing kills flu and cold viruses that can be picked up from heavily touched surfaces such as door knobs, telephones, money, etc.