We learned much about staying safe and healthy after the pandemic and we can use what we’ve learned to stay well during annual flu season.
The flu never takes the year off so we must always be vigilant about our health. Here are a few simple but effective lifestyle changes you can make in preparation for flu season.
Try to Stay Active
- As the weather turns colder it may be difficult and/or less enjoyable to be outside. Studies show that regular exercise can drastically reduce your chance of catching a cold or the flu.
- Getting your blood flowing helps flush out bacteria in your lungs and bloodstream.
- If you’re able to go outside for a walk once or twice a day, make sure to do so. It makes a difference! When cold weather creeps in, bundle up and go outside. Your immune system will thank you.
Get More Sleep
- I’m sure you’ve noticed that you generally feel better when you’ve had enough sleep.
- Sleep allows your body to reduce stress and inflammation. This leads to improved blood flow and less risk of infection.
- If you’re not sure how much sleep you need, try this simple sleep assessment from WebMD
Balance Your Diet
- A balanced diet is beneficial to every aspect of your health, and that includes strengthening your immune system.
- Eating too much sugar “affects the way your white blood cells attack bacteria,”, slowing them down and allowing viruses to spread quicky.
- During flu season, make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits and vegetables with high levels of vitamin C. That includes oranges, bell peppers, kiwis, strawberries, and broccoli.
Get Your Flu Shot
- According to the CDC, “the single, best way to prevent seasonal flu” is to get a flu shot every year.
- A flu shot coupled with taking care of your health makes your chances of getting sick much less.
- Some people believe that a flu shot will cause you to get the flu, but that is not the case. Be aware that it may take up to 2 weeks for your body to develop antibodies from the vaccine, so stay vigilant during that time.
- Most insurance companies cover the flu vaccine. Healthcare companies like Health Net, are going out into the community and offering the flu shot for free to help reduce the risk of an outbreak.
Conclusion:
One can only hope that living with a COVID mindset for so long will now help us get through flu season with ease. If you have any reason to believe you’re coming down with the flu, be sure to call your doctor immediately. Wear a mask when you’re in a crowded setting because it’s better to be safe than sorry!
This post was updated on 8/2023.
Barbara says
Wow really excellent tips! And so many. Thanks for the link about sleep assessment. I really wish I slept better these days.
Rebecca Forstadt-Olkowski says
Thanks, Barbara. Don’t we all? Hopefully, we will get better sleep soon! LOL
Laurie Stone says
Good suggestions, Rebecca. Got my first flu shot this year. Didn’t feel a thing and had no side effects, which I’d been dreading. I’ll do it next year too.
Rebecca Forstadt-Olkowski says
Great Laurie, I’ve never had a problem with the flu shot and it’s way better than getting the flu, that’s for sure.