What are the best ways to prevent flu and colds? Besides washing hands, what are methods that really work? To answer that, we need to understand how you become susceptible to colds or flu in the first place.
Have you ever wondered why people are more prone to colds and flu when its cold? Let’s look at some facts.
Fact 1: Scarcity of Vitamin D. Since people spend more time indoors, there’s less sunshine exposure to skin. Thus, less vitamin D produced in the body.
Fact 2: Carbohydrate Craving. To prevent flu and colds, we must consider the connection with carbohydrate craving. When cold, your body increases its demand for carbohydrates to help generate heat to keep you warm. More carbohydrates means more sugar in your body. Sugar suppresses your immune system.
Fact 3: Greater Exposure to Viruses. In the cold months, we close windows to keep the warmth from heaters and prevent cold air from coming in, This results in unclean, stagnant air where germs just circulate. So, to prevent flu and colds we need to make sure there is regular flow of fresh air in our homes and offices.
Fact 4: Decreased Antioxidant Supply. Due to greater consumption of starchy carbohydrates, there tends to be less consumption of antioxidant-rich foods. To strengthen and support the immune system, it is necessary to consume food with high antioxidants and phytonutrients such as deep dark-colored fruits like cherries and berries, and dark-green leafy veggies like spinach, kale and other greens.
Thus, to prevent flu and colds it is advisable to apply the following:
- Take 4000 to 5000 IU Vitamin D daily
- Control intake of sugar and starchy processed carbohydrates
- Decrease indoor air pollution by opening windows in homes and offices for about an hour per day
- Make vegetable and fruit smoothies. Try frozen berries, cherries and fresh greens. Add whey, rice and/or pea protein powder for extra energy
- Exercise regularly to boost your immune system
Put into practice the above recommendations and you’ll very likely avoid getting sick this winter. To learn more, read “Prevent Flu” and “Strengthening Your Immune System“.