The Best Nutritional & Lifestyle habits to follow to prevent Common cold & flu
Can you imagine life without Colds & FLU?
Is there a secret sauce to never getting sick?
What if I told you yes, but practically it is difficult – let me be honest with you. Nevertheless, you can prevent yourself from catching colds & flu frequently by just staying healthy.
In this blog we will uncover some nutritional and lifestyle habits to follow and prevent common colds and flu.
So, what does it take to stay in good shape, it’s not about dodging colds and flu—it’s about adopting smart habits that keep your immune system firing on all cylinders.
In California’s ever-changing climate, it pays to be proactive. Whether you’re hitting the gym, planning your meals, or scheduling that annual vaccine, the right steps can help keep those pesky germs at bay.
What Nutrients Help Prevent a Cold or Flu?
Some of the essential nutrients that help prevent cold & flu are – vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and antioxidants that are the backbone of a robust immune system.
While no single nutrient is a magic bullet, a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can give your body the extra boost it needs to fight off infections.
How Can You Keep Cold & Flu Away by Leading a Healthy Lifestyle?
Living a healthy lifestyle is the first line of defense against colds and the flu. You need to keep your body healthy because that is the only place on earth you can live.
A few tips to see how you can stay ahead of the curve
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves circulation, which helps immune cells move through the body and fend off invaders. Even a brisk walk or a light jog can make a world of difference.
Get Adequate Sleep: Your body repairs itself during sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours per night to ensure your immune system is at its best.
Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping your surroundings clean can drastically cut down the spread of germs.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress weakens your immune system. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or even a quick chat with a friend can help keep stress in check.
Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for every cell in your body, including those that keep your immune defenses up.
What Nutrients Should One Take to Prevent Cold and Flu?
RSV leads to cold-like symptoms, however, can worsen into wheezing or breathing difficulties in infants. Urgent care teams provide breathing treatments, monitor oxygen levels, and advise on hydration. Immediate care is crucial if breathing becomes labored.
Stomach Flu or Pain (Gastroenteritis)
Certain nutrients can give you an edge over the fruits and veggies you eat every day.
- Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, vitamin C is key to building a strong immune system.
- Vitamin D: Essential for immune regulation, this vitamin can be sourced from fatty fish, fortified dairy products, or safe sun exposure.
- Zinc: Present in lean meats, nuts, and whole grains, zinc is vital for the development and function of immune cells.
- Antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, help neutralize free radicals, reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.
- Probiotics: A healthy gut contributes to a robust immune response. Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods can help maintain gut health, which is closely linked to immune function.
Apart from food, diet, vitamins and nutrients, vaccines play a vital role in prevention. Getting your vaccine shots cannot be avoided at any age.
Many people who walk into our urgent care ask us if it is necessary to take a vaccine shot for flu. Our straightforward answer is – it is better to be safe than sorry.
While there’s no vaccine for the common cold, the annual flu shot is a tried-and-true way to protect yourself from influenza.
Vaccination not only helps reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick, but it also lowers the risk of complications, especially for those in high-risk groups.
It is recommended by health experts to take a flu shot during the fall before flu season kicks into high gear. Doing this every year helps you to stay ahead of the flu.
Are Vaccines for Cold and Flu Covered by Insurance?
For many Americans, the good news is that vaccines are typically covered by insurance. Most health plans include the flu shot as a preventive service, meaning you might not have to pay out of pocket.
However, it’s always a smart idea to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details, ensuring there are no surprises at the time of vaccination.
Overall, one should learn how to stay healthy and build a defense mechanism to protect oneself from colds & flu.
For those in and around the Torrance area, taking care of your health has never been easier. If you’re feeling under the weather or just want to stay ahead of potential outbreaks, consider walking into a local doctor’s office.
At Life Saver Urgent Care, we promise shorter wait times, especially if you book an appointment in advance. For vaccinations and additional health services, don’t hesitate to contact Life Saver Urgent Care—they’re just a phone call away.
Contagious cases require prompt treatment to prevent spread.