Wellness Moment: Your Flu Season Survival Guide
It's that time of year again. With colder weather and the end of daylight saving time comes cold and flu season. While sometimes getting sick this time of year feels inevitable, there are things you can do to help you stay healthy or feel better faster if you do come down with a bug.
Get Your Flu Shot
Getting your annual vaccine early helps prevent illness and can make symptoms milder if you do get sick.
Get Lots of Sleep
The average adult needs at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Getting enough quality sleep helps your immune system tackle infection. Skimping on sleep increases your chance of coming down with a bug.
Wash Your Hands
Yes, it's basic advice. It's given because it works. Regular hand washing can prevent about 20% of respiratory infections (e.g. colds). Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren't available.
Eat Well & Stay Hydrated
A balanced nutrient-rich diet supports your immune system and helps fight off illness. Particularly important are vitamins A and D, which you can get from sweet potato, broccoli, eggs, dairy products, chicken, and fish. If you do get sick herbal tea with honey, broth, chicken soup, and 100% juices can help keep you hydrated and sooth sore throats.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can weaken your immune function which makes it easier to get sick. Reduce stress where you can and practice small coping habits to manage demands in a healthy way. Take stretch breaks, pause for a few deep breaths, or simply step away from your screen for a few minutes.
The common thread? Take extra care of your immune system. It's the powerhouse that helps fight off disease and infection and your body's best defense this time of year.
If you are feeling under the weather, Maple Virtual Healthcare means a doctor is just a phone call away. Primary care practitioners are available online within minutes to diagnose, refer, adn prescribe. Maple Virtual Healthcare is included in all Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans at no extra cost.
