How to Protect Yourself against this Flu Season with or Without the Flu Vaccination

Do you have friends and family who always seem to be sick around this time of the year? Do you wonder why and what you can do?

There are steps you can take to avoid getting the flu during the flu season whether you have had the flu vaccine or not.

Keeping your immune system in optimal working condition is key to not getting the flu to begin with.

Eat your way healthy

That's why it is particularly important to include immune-boosting foods in your diet.

These foods include those fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as wild salmon and sardines), which help reduce inflammation, help increase airflow and protecting lungs from colds and respiratory infections. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C, E and pro-vitamin A (such as spinach), and vegetables like garlic and onions, provide antibiotic protection and serve as anti-inflammatory agents. The selenium and zinc found in nuts and seeds also support the immune function.

Optimize your vitamin D level

This is one of the best strategies for avoiding infections of all kinds, and studies suggest vitamin D deficiency may actually be the reason behind the seasonality of the flu. Know your number- mine is 65. What is yours?

Avoid Sugar

Probably one of the worst things we can do to our immune function is eating sugar. Of course once in a while is not a big deal but a constant intake of sugar can prevent your immune system from functioning properly. Sugar impairs the function of your immune system almost immediately, and a healthy immune system is one of the most important keys to fighting off viruses. Sugar is trouble. It suppresses your immune system function for hours.

Minimize Stress

When your body becomes stressed, your body will be less able to fight off the flu and other illnesses.

Use natural immune boosters

Examples include probiotics, oil of oregano and garlic. They help boost your body's ability to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.

Essential Oils

On Guard (doTERRA), a proprietary essential oil blend, provides a natural and effective alternative for immune support. On Guard protects against environmental and seasonal threats and is known for its positive effects on the immune system. On Guard can be taken internally on a daily basis to maintain healthy immune function.*

And let’s not forget- wash your hands and try to get plenty of rest.

*www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2994788/