Best Ways to Protect Yourself From the Flu

Best Ways to Protect Yourself From the Flu

1.  Vitamin D, Vitamin D, Vitamin D.  Most people are deficient in this vitamin that the body actually produces itself from exposure to direct sunlight.  Try to get as much direct sunlight as possible. Keep in mind that the skin must be sun block-free to be absorbed.  With most people, supplementation is needed.  According to the latest review by Carole Baggerly (Grassrootshealth.org), adults need about 8,000 IU’s a day.  Also, beware that you take Vitamin D3 as the other types of D will not provide the same benefit to your immune system.

2.  Be sure to exercise regularly to boost your immune system and circulation.  The most effective type of exercise is interval training where you alternate exercise with short bursts of intensity and a regular pace for 20 minutes total.

3.  Avoid dairy during the winter flu season months.  In many people, milk and cheese products tend to cause sinus stuffiness (a lack of sinus circulation).  This may make one more susceptible to physically catching and hanging on to a virus.

4.  Wash your hands!  This will protect you from spreading viruses to mouth and nose and infecting others as well.  Be sure NOT to use antibacterial soap.  They often do more harm than good as they often eliminate the good bacteria that your body needs.  Also, be sure to ask those around you to exercise proper hygiene as well for the benefit of everyone.

5.  Avoid sugar and processed food.  Sugar impairs the function of your immune system almost immediately, and as you likely know, a healthy immune system is one of the most important keys to fighting off viruses and other illness. Be aware that sugar is present in foods you may not suspect, like ketchup and fruit juice.

6.  Be sure to get plenty of rest.  If your body is fatigued, it will not have the strength to fight off any intruders.

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