With winter here, you’re bound to be surrounded by coughers and sneezers wherever you go, greatly increasing your flu risk.

Running like crazy from anyone who’s ill is the first step to avoid succumbing yourself, as is doing a Lady Macbeth and continually washing your hands. That’s because the flu virus is not only transmitted via droplets when someone coughs or sneezes, but also manages to survive on surfaces – door handles, escalators, desks, even bathroom towels – for up to 48 hours. So just one touch followed by a quick rub of eyes, nose or mouth and you’re a goner – that’s how contagious it is! Best advice? Arm yourself with bottles of waterless soap and use compulsively throughout the flu season.

There are also many other ways to get yourself flu-fighting fit, and since taking responsibility for your health and your body is the medical fraternity’s primary message these days, now’s the time to work on an anti-flu action plan. First up is strengthening your immune system – your body’s natural defense against viruses – as studies have shown that maintaining a healthy immune system will help you fight off infections such as colds and flu. Here’s how:

• Get a good night’s sleep as fatigue lowers your resistance- 7-8 hours for adults; about 9 hours for teenagers. 
• Reduce your stress levels and learn how torelax as too much stress impairs your immune system. 
• Stop smoking. It’s a huge risk factor for both viral and bacterial disease. 
• Keep on moving even during the cold winter months as research has discovered a link between moderate, regular exercise (aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week) and a strong immune system. 
•  Reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates (white bread, biscuits), the so-called ‘bad’ fats (trans and saturated fats) and sugar which can lower your resistance and increase your risk for infection. 
• Supplement with Vitamin C (1000mg daily), Zinc (9-14gm daily), Echinacea and Ginseng to improve general immunity. 
• Increase your oxygen levels and boost your immune system through ozone therapy. This non-invasive therapy in an ozone steam or ozone far infrared saunakills bacteria, viruses and microbial infections. – Inserted by Salvagente 
• Stay well hydrated by drinking lots of water (add fresh mint, lemon or ginger to hot water during winter) and herbal teas. 
• Have the flu vaccine every year especially if you’re at high risk, and follow in the footsteps of millions of Americans and Europeans by stocking up on a homeopathic medicine that can assist your body to flight flu symptoms (body aches, pains, chills and fever) right from the start. Chat to your local pharmacist for more information.

Remember to consult your health practitioner if your symptoms persist for longer than 3 days/ worsen, or if you have a high fever.  

(Press release from LeBron Pharmaceuticals for Boiron Laboratories)

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Do you have other remedies to boost your immune system?

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