How To Choose Vitamins and Supplements to Prevent Flu
Millions of people come down with the flu each year.If you can, you will want to avoid it.You might be wondering which supplements actually work to prevent the flu.There isn't much evidence that supplements or natural products prevent the flu.The vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu.It's possible that some of these supplements and vitamins will help your body fight off the flu.If they work for you, try them out for yourself.
Step 1: You can support your immunity by eating 65-90 percent of the recommended amount of vitamins C and E.
If you don't have enough vitamins C and D, you will be more susceptible to illnesses such as the flu.To keep your immunity strong, you should get at least 65-90 percent of the vitamin C you need each day.A serving of fruit or vegetable is enough for most people.Bell peppers, apples, and leafy green vegetables are good sources.You could take a supplement to get more vitamins.
Step 2: It's a good idea to get 15 micrograms of vitamin D.
Research shows that getting enough of the sunshine can help you fight off the flu.Take supplements if you don't get enough vitamins D-rich foods.A lot of foods don't have high levels of vitamins D and E.The best option is supplements.It's difficult to get vitamin D from your regular diet.Try to eat more eggs, fish, and fortified cereals.
Step 3: Zinc can boost your immune system.
An oral zinc supplement can help you fight off the flu.During the flu season, take a zinc supplement to keep your immunity up.Make sure you only take the recommended amount of zinc because it can cause problems.The zinc in the spray is linked to serious side effects like permanent loss of smell, so you shouldn't use it.
Step 4: If you show flu symptoms, you should take elderberry.
If taken soon enough, elderberry extract can help ward off early flu symptoms.If you start to feel sick, try taking 15 mL of extract 4 times a day.Your body may be able to fight the infection before it gets worse.Elderberry tea has extra benefits.Depending on the product and concentration, elderberry dosing can range from 300 to 1,500.The recommended dose on the brand you use is always followed.
Step 5: You can see if echinacea shortens your flu symptoms.
Studies show that echinacea can help fight the flu.If you start to feel unwell, try taking some echinacea in a supplement or herbal tea to see if it works.If you take echinacea when you are healthy, it can boost your immunity and prevent you from getting sick.
Step 6: Support your gut health.
The evidence is not strong but it does suggest that you could be prevented from getting sick.If you want to increase your intake of probiotic-rich foods, try taking a daily supplement.Each capsule contains several billion, which is why a common dose is 10 billion units per day.Follow the instructions to take the correct amount.Good sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha.Try to include one or two of these items each day.
Step 7: If you can, avoid people with the flu.
The flu can be spread from person to person.People who show flu symptoms should be avoided so you don't get the flu.If you live with someone who gets the flu, this will be difficult.If you have to, stay in one room and only go in if you need to.
Step 8: Don't forget to wash your hands.
If you don't wash your hands multiple times throughout the day, you can spread the flu virus to yourself.Rub your hands together so the soap lathers after you wet them.The front and back of your hands should be scrubbed for at least 20 seconds to kill any germs.If you haven't washed your hands, you should never touch your face.It's a common way for people to get the flu.If you aren't near a sink to wash your hands, you could use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.You should wash your hands as soon as you can.
Step 9: Keep your immunity high by getting a full night of sleep.
Sleep deprivation can affect your immune system.Your body can fight off the flu if you get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.If you have trouble sleeping at night, try relaxing activities like reading, listening to music, or meditating.Light stimulates your brain and keeps you awake, so don't use screens like your phone or computer.
Step 10: You can boost your immunity by exercising regularly.
Staying active stimulates your immune system.If you want your immunity to stay strong during the flu season, try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a week.Aerobic workouts like running or swimming increase the immune system.It's better to take a day or two off from exercising if you feel like you're coming down with something.Allow your body to fight the infection and rest.
Step 11: If you start showing flu symptoms, stay home and rest.
Rest is the main treatment if you come down with the flu.Take a few days off from work or school.You need to drink plenty of fluids as well.Your coworkers will appreciate the fact that you stay home and prevent the virus from spreading.