Prevent Flu by Boosting Your Immune System
It is essential to prevent the flu since it can cause a number of distressing symptoms. One of the keys to prevent flu infection is to boost the immune system. The immune system defends the body from harmful microbes such as virus and bacteria, which can cause diseases or infections. The body’s capability to defend against these invaders is called immunity. Building one’s immunity against all invaders is a much more comprehensive method than the singularly focused flu vaccination. Below are some tips to help strengthen the immune system and thereby avert the occurrence of flu: Proper Hygiene to prevent the flu: Flu is a highly communicable disease. It can be easily be transferred from person to person–through inhalation droplets, direct transmission and indirect transmission. Flu virus can enter the body through the air that we breathe; but more frequently, it is transferred from one person to another by touching either a sick person directly or touching inanimate objects that are contaminated by the flu virus. Thus, some measures have been suggested by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to prevent the occurrence of flu; these measures are as follows: 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 amounts of antioxidants and vitamin C which are known to be immune-system boosters. Probiotic-rich foods also help the body fight off infections; and mushrooms have also been proven to have immune stimulating qualities that can improve immune-competent cell activities. Coconut oil on the other hand contains lauric acid and monolaurin which have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-protozoal properties and can damage lipid-coated viruses such as influenza. Adequate Sleep: Sleep also plays a huge role in promoting a healthy and well functioning immune system. Proper rest gives the body time to restore damaged tissues and renew energy stores. Research studies have made known that sleep influences 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: Almost all illnesses can be associated to stress. A stressed individual is predisposed to a wide range of illnesses including heart illnesses, cancer, lung ailments and mental illnesses. Too much stress also weakens the immune system and increases the risk for infection or viral and/or bacterial invasion.