How to prevent flu and COVID: Vaccines
Sanitize your surroundings
A natural way to prevent viruses from spreading is to be vigilant about hygiene, said California-based physician Matilde Parente. “Keep your hands off all common surfaces, such as doorknobs, handles, faucets or shared electronics,” Parente advised. “Create a barrier by using your sleeve, a tissue or baby wipes.” Keep alcohol-based sanitizer handy and when you wash your hands, make it count, Parente said. “Make a conscious effort to keep hands away from your mouth, eyes, nose and face.”
Get enough sleep
Your lifestyle can directly affect the physical health of you and your children. Prevent the sniffles and coughs this season by ensuring the entire family is resting well, suggests New York-based physician Bruce L. Feldman. “If you’re generally not getting adequate, or good sleep, then you can sign up to be sick,” he said.
Stay healthy in winter: Eat well
One of the easiest prevention strategies during the cold season may just be the tastiest. Feldman recommends you avoid processed foods, limit fatty protein sources, and encourage vegetables. “It can really improve your body’s resistance, making you less likely to get sick,” said Feldman. Iron rich foods, such as lentils, beans, oysters, beets, beef, eggs and black sesame seeds, can also keep your immune system strong.
Spice it up
Spice up your food and prevent that typical cold at the same time. Dr. Mindy Haar, director of health sciences at the New York Institute of Technology, recommends loading up on herbs, spices, bulgar, wheat and berries to prevent the common cold. “Soups made with herbs and spices, such as garlic, dill and oregano add to the body’s strength in dealing with the cold virus,” Haar said.
Increase herbal intake
Herbal remedies work well to provide added protection during cold season. Add bee pollen to your favorite smoothie or manuka honey to tea to kill bacteria and boost your immune system. Dr. Zak Zarbock, pediatrician and founder of Zarbee’s all natural cough products, recommends natural remedies to ward off cold symptoms. “If you do get sick, rely on all natural products that contain ingredients proven to be effective,” he suggested.
Note: Check with your doctor before taking any supplements or herbal remedies, even those labeled, "natural." Some can be harmful if taken improperly or in large quantities, especially for children, or pregnant or nursing mothers.
Stock up on vitamins
During those wet months of winter, ensure your family still gets a touch of sunshine with Vitamin D supplements. “Vitamin D was found to be essential for immune cell activation,” advised Dr. Desmond Ebanks, founder of Alternity Healthcare. “Supplementing your diet with vitamin C & D, selenium and zinc is also essential for most individuals.”
