How to stay well during cold and flu season

After talking to one of my coworkers (Chantell, AKA #TACOREALTOR) she suggested that I write an article about how to tackle cold and flu season. We all know the basics of avoiding colds and flu:

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2. Stay home when you are sick.

3. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

4. Wash your hands or use sanitizer to help protect against germs.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods.

Lets talk about eating nutritious foods:

Im sure you have heard the old saying “feed a cold and starve a fever.” When you’re battling an intestinal virus or common cold, the healing power of nourishment and energy through foods is vital  in order to boost your immunity and give your body the energy it needs to fight off illness, particularly if you’re dealing with flu symptoms.

Here are a few foods that are gentle on your digestive system and will help you overcome the flu:

1. Chicken Soup

Believe it or not, there is some truth to the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” saying. Each bowl of comforting chicken noodle soup contains vitamins,  minerals, nourishment and much needed hydration benefits.  Chicken soup actually contains anti-inflammatory properties that can boost cilia in your nasal passages, which filter and stop viruses, fungus, and bacteria from entering the body which is the cause of infection.

 

2. Ginger

Ginger has long been prescribed to aid in upset stomaches, flu and the common cold for good reason: ginger root actually contains powerful inflammation-fighting properties. Ginger is also effective at helping break down the accumulation of toxins in your organs, and is known to cleanse the lymphatic system.  Ginger can also help people who are bloated, have gastrointestinal disorders, or suffer from constipation by relaxing the smooth muscle in your gut lining helping food move throughout the system.

 

4. Bananas

Bananas are often prescribed for those who are battling the flu because they are a great source of energy while being gentle on a upset tummy. Bananas might also be the only solid food one can keep down after battling the flu with symptoms such as: vomiting, stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.  Bananas can also help you get a good nights sleep due to their nutritional content.

 

5. Garlic

Garlic is a powerful immune-boosting, anti-bacterial, antimicrobial that harbors flu-fighting powers while aiding in mucous congestion. In fact, garlic extract supplements have shown to improve immune cell function and reduction of numerous cold and flu symptoms.