PERSPECTIVES ON HEALTHY LIVING:
By Coralie Darsey-Malloy
As there are no known cures for colds and flu prevention is the goal. Most cold and flu viruses are spread by direct contact so minimizing exposure and strengthening the immune system are two effective ways to stay healthy.
When someone with the flu or cold sneezes into their hand then touches objects the infection can be picked up by the next person who touches it. Widespread outbreaks of influenza usually occur during the flu season, which typically runs from late November to March.
Caution needs to be exercised when using painkillers normally used for headaches to relieve fever and pain. Be aware of the does and combinations of ingredients when using more than one product in tablets, capsules, hot lemon drinks that contain the same active ingredient such as paramcetamol. It is best to to consult pharmacists or physicians rather than self-prescribing over-the-counter remedies that claim to be “natural” but often contain unhealthy ingredients.
Although flu infections and colds can be dangerous, the vast majority of people who come down with them recover within a week or two. Despite what many have heard or believe the flu vaccine does not provide guaranteed protection against catching the virus and some believe that flu vaccines may cause more harm than good. With growing concern over the HINI virus many are looking for effective, natural anti-flu strategies and flu treatments.
Preventative lifestyle basics:
1. Get enough sleep. The immune system functions much better with 7-9 hours sleep for optimal health. When the body is fatigued it is less able to ward off viruses and infections.
2. Exercise moderately on a regular basis as it builds up immune responses.
3. Avoid sugar. Even small amounts of sugar can significantly impair immune function leaving it more susceptible to the flu.
4. During winter heat from forced air and electrical heating systems dries out the mucus membranes and it is important to keep them well-hydrated by drinking more water. Getting some fresh air and improving room ventilation are healthy ways of giving the body some relief and are key components in fighting off viruses.
5. The virus enters through eyes, nose, mouth and possibly ears so it is important to keep your distance from those who are infected and wash hands frequently. It is advisable to carry hand sanitizers and use them after shaking hands or touching handles, payphones and doorknobs or anything else others have touched. If nothing is available rub hands together very hard for a minute or so to help break up the germs. When going out in public coating the inside of the nostrils with sesame oil can trap germs and viruses and prevent them from entering the body.
6. To reduce chances of infection develop the habit of keeping about 6 feet distance between yourself and others who are infected. Do not shake hands without immediately washing them for 15-20 seconds with warm water and soap.
7. When coughing and sneezing it is preferable to use the crook of the elbow rather than muffling them with bare hands or tissues. When a tissue is used throw it away and thoroughly sanitize the hands.
8. Relax and keep a positive attitude to activate the immune system. Negative mindsets and too much stress have a negative impact on overall health and over time unrelenting stress weakens the whole system. Meditation, maintaining a positive attitude combined with a healthy lifestyle can reduce stress responses. When relaxation skills are put into action interleukins (leaders in immune response) increase in the bloodstream. Taking time each day to envision oneself in pleasant, calming places is a learnable skill. It is important to note that those who try to relax but find the mind wandering or feel bored show no changes in blood chemicals.
9. Reduce alcohol consumption during flu season. Too much alcohol impairs liver and immunity and creates greater susceptibility to infections.
10. Avoid smoke filled places and smoking. First and second hand smoke significantly impairs the immune system and dries out nasal passages, paralyzes the small hairs in the nose and lungs that help ward off viruses.
11. Taking regular saunas are a preventative step many Europeans take. The air in saunas is too hot for viruses to survive and steam and infra saunas have immune boosting effects. Those with heart conditions should consult their physician before using any form of intense heal therapy. h
12. A healthy diet including proven immune-boosting foods can be a preventative way of catching the flu.
Flu Fighting Foods:
Eating a variety of dark green, red and yellow vegetables and fruits that are packed with healthy phyto-nutrients can give the immune system a boost. “Phyto” means plants and the natural ingredients supercharge the vitamins in food.
Fresh raw or lightly-cooked garlic has strong, natural antiviral properties. It also provides a boost to the immune system when eaten on a regular basis.
Green tea, like garlic has the ability to both kill viruses and stimulate the immune system when 3-6 cups of strong green tea are taken per day during flu season.
Add Cayenne pepper to foods and drinks immune boosting nutrient Vitamin A.
The beneficial bacteria in yogurt can stimulate production of immune system substances that help the body fight disease.
Supplements of vitamin C, zinc and the herbal remedy Echinacea are popular cold and flu remedies. Echinacea is reported to be more effective if taken early enough before symptoms worsen.
Colds, Viruses and Self-Help:
Colds are caused by different sorts of viruses. The rhinovirus and corona virus are most common and are often more frequent between late autumn and early spring. The cold virus grows in soft, warm surfaces of the nose, throat, sinuses and airways and that is where the symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, sore through, cough, headache and generally tired. Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by slight fever and aching muscles. Normal body temperature is 37 degrees Celsius. Usually the body will fight off the infection without needing to see a doctor. However if symptoms of severe vomiting, diarrhea, earaches, difficulty breathing, rashes, uncontrollable coughs with yellowy green or rust colored phlegm and extreme lethargy or drowsiness develop it is advisable to contact your doctor or health practitioner.
Colds and sinusitis can develop into infections that affect breathing such as bronchitis, pneumonia and are more common for those who smoke have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Younger children can be prone to middle ear infections and develop complications from the common cold and it is important to keep an eye on their symptoms. Antibiotics aren’t prescribed for a cold but can treat other infections caused by bacteria.
Here are some self-help options to try during the cold and flu season:
Gargle with ½ teaspoon salt in warm water.
When sinuses are congested steam inhalations with sage, chamomile leaves, menthol, eucalyptus can help to clear them. Sipping sage and clove tea can be soothing to the system and help to fight infections. Nasal saline drops are another option.
Vapor rubs, soaks in a warm tub with Epsom salts and hot water bottles can provide steam to stuffed nasal passages and provide relief for sore aching muscles.
Lozenges with menthol, eucalyptus, honey, lemon may soothe an irritated throat.
Tissues with moisturizers and lip balm can help prevent sore skin around the nose and dry, chapped lips.
Ample rest and sleeping as needed supports the immune system as it works to overcome colds and flu.
Chinese medicine and herbal preparations suggested by a trained practitioner are another natural option to treating both colds and viruses. I am a
free lance photojournalist, author, life coach, group leader and public speaker. For more information check out the following links:
Fresh Beginnings Personal Development company website:
www.fresh-beginnings.com or Email me at raiawritingroad@gmail.com
The website for my book: I've Been There~A Testimony of Hope is: www.ibtbook.com
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