When should you start taking steps to prevent disease? Well, since it’s December, I would say five minutes ago.
There are four daily habits that can help your defense against cold and flu. The first habit is just plain common sense; wash those hands. This will help prevent you from catching a cold and it will also help prevent you from spreading a cold. A medical student once shared with me that if Americans would wash their hands just three more times per day that an array of diseases can be prevented, including flu. Secondly, a full night of sleep can strengthen our immunity. From what I’ve observed, sleep deprivation is a common and nasty habit in this country that we try to make up for with coffee. Dr. Jon Dunn of North County Naturopathic Health Care postulates that most people need eight or nine hours of sleep on a consistent basis. He further suggests that even mild sleep deprivation can hurt our ability to fight virus and bacteria. Thirdly, there are certain dietary practices that can further guard our bodies; plenty of water and fresh foods like fruits and veggies. Dr. Dunn suggests foods that are close to their natural state; as close as possible. Fourth and finally, several studies show that mild exercise can help strengthen the immune system. (Refer to Exercise (part 2) in the November archives.)
If you can develop these four habits you can definitely start your journey toward a nice strong immune system. Keep reading for more information on cold and flu prevention and combat.
It may be prudent to state what course of action should be employed by those of us who will actually catch a cold or get the flue, in spite of preventative steps.
ReplyDeleteThank you my friend! See later posts on cold and flu to find ways to fight it.
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