Cold and Flu Prevention:

Steps You Can Take

When you first feel yourself becoming sick, there are things you can do to avoid becoming ill or to shorten the duration of illness. These suggestions are especially helpful if you do them as early as possible. 

Eat Very Lightly Or Not At All - With most illnesses, the appetite is diminished. This is a natural response of the body. Energy is needed to fight off the "bug" and the body doesn't have the energy to process food. Give your digestive tract a rest! If you are hungry, eat soups, stews and steamed vegetables. Avoid CATS-Caffeine, Alcohol, Tobacco and Sugar. They do nothing to support your immune system.

Get Rest As Soon As Possible - Many people ignore the early warning signs of illness and keep working until they "drop." You will take longer to heal if you allow the illness to get a foothold. If you feel a sore throat, headache, congestion etc., coming on, take it easy. If possible, take a day off from work. This may prevent you from having to take three days off later on.

Drink Plenty Of Fluids - Staying hydrated helps you fend off any viral invader.  Moist mucous membranes protect you better than dry ones.  This is why many of us get sick when we fly and when our homes are dry from electric heat in the winter.  Moisten yourselves by drinking plenty of clean water and consider simmering some water on the stove to add some moisture to the air. 

Sweat It Out - Creating a fever helps your body fight the invading "bug". Take a hot bath while drinking a warming tea like ginger. Doing this at the first sign of illness and immediately going to bed can often abort the cold.

Wash Your Hands Often - Washing hands does indeed reduce your chances of picking up a "bug".

If the virus catches you off-guard and you need a little support, you can always make an appointment to see me for some herbs, homeopathics, Bowen treatment or hydrotherapy....all delivered with TLC from me, Dr. Lori.