Naturally Fight Cold & Flu Season
Even the healthiest individuals are not always protected from sickness when flu and cold season strikes. Although medical experts strongly advocate for flu vaccines, such preventative measures are not a guarantee against catching the cold or flu. Natural remedies may be a good alternative for individuals who want to avoid risky side effects of the flu vaccine and medications or who have received substandard care from a medical professional. According to Baker & Gilchrist, Attorneys at Law, patients who have received negligent care which resulted in harm or injury are victims of medical malpractice.
A good way to avoid falling victim to medical malpractice is trying out some natural remedies. As with any treatment, use caution and pay attention to any symptoms that may occur. If your cold or flu symptoms worsen, contact a trusted medical professional.
Don’t miss to read: 7 healing food for colds and flu.
The Power of Food
When it comes to cold and flu season, everyone seems to have a tried and true recipe for fighting the crud. Whether it’s a top secret family recipe or just a can of soup from your pantry, there are some foods that can help you feel better in a short amount of time:
Garlic: Love it or hate it, it’s a popular flavor in a variety of delicious dishes. Garlic not only works well in a hearty pasta dish, but it has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Make a dish with garlic, pop a garlic pill, or if you feel really brave, eat a clove raw.
Soup: Chicken soup is probably the most suggested cold and flu remedy. Soup, in general, works well because it keeps you hydrated, soothes a sore throat, loosens up mucus, and offers nutrition when food is less than appealing. Break out your grandmother’s secret recipe or create your own; don’t forget to add garlic!
Honey: Honey and lemon tea is a classic cold remedy that’s been known to soothe a sore throat and clear up congestion. If you’re not a fan of lemon, adding honey to any warm beverage can have you feeling better with each cup.
Soaks and Supplements
When you are feeling the dreaded symptoms of a cold or flu, it’s best to get rest and take a hot bath (some experts suggest adding Epsom salt). If you don’t have a bathtub, a long hot shower can do wonders as well. People are more likely to get sick when they are stressed out or sleep deprived, both contributes to a weakened immune system. Although many don’t have time to put life on hold when you feel sickness coming on, it’s crucial to get 7-8 hours of sleep and stick to that schedule.
Additionally, immune-boosting supplements can keep you from getting sick but may also be able to shorten your symptoms if you take a supplement, like Zinc, Ginseng, Vitamin D, or Omega-3. When taking a supplement, read the label carefully and don’t fall for any “hypes”. Do your research and avoid supplements that have risky side effects.
Another natural remedy is more of a preventative measure, exercise and hand washing. It’s proven that if you stay healthy, you are less likely to be stressed and your immune system will be strong. Handwashing should be a no brainer, but people continue to skip hand washing more than they should. Although a little dirt is good for you, always wash up after being in contact with anyone who has been or is sick.
