6 Ways to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

 

 

Yuck! The flu can really take a toll on your mind, body, and spirit. Plus, if you’re a parent you can’t afford to be down for the count. And, if your kids get hit with it, you’re out of sleep and out of work. This year is flu season particularly bad around the United States.  Staying healthy should be your top priority during flu season. There are some things you can do to improve your immunity, naturally. Read on to find out how!

 

1.) Wash Your Hands

This may seem like a given, but washing your hands can be really effective when beating the flu. If you’re constantly on the go, hand sanitizer works. Always be sure to wash before you eat and after touching public items like door handles, toilet paper, stall doors, and shopping carts.

2.) Exercise

Regular exercise helps strengthen your immune system. While you may not be up for running a marathon, you can get the whole family involved in staying healthy and getting fit. Run cardio circuits with your kids. Not only will they love the short bursts of varying activity, they will feel better and be able to fight of the flu easier. Set a timer and assign each family member an exercise for one minute. Keep the moves simple, yet fun. Think jumping jacks, pushups, sit ups, high knees, and squat thrusts! The best part about this? You can do it in the comfort of your own home, and it’s totally free!

3.) Eat Clean

When your family eats lots of processed foods, it actually decreases their immunity. Many of these foods are high in bad fats and are filled with preservatives. They lack the essential vitamins that are needed to fight off illnesses. Some nutrients that you can get by eating clean are Vitamin C and E. Both of these vitamins support your immune system, so stock up on strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, pineapple, and raspberries.  While they may not all be child friendly, you can toss them in a blender and allow your kiddos can drink their nutrients, rather than eating them.

4.) Sleep

There are many benefits to having an early bedtime. One of them includes beating the flu. When you get the rest your body needs, your immune system is strong and steady. So, consider bumping your kids’ bedtime up by an hour or two. Or, letting sleep a little longer on the weekend (chores can wait) during flu season.

5.) Hydrate

This may be easy for adults, but can be more difficult for children. Some kids are naturally inclined to drink a lot of water, while others can’t stand the taste of water. In an effort to strengthen their immune system, buy them a cool, new cup to drink from. You could also infuse a water bottle with fruit, mint, or an organic greens powder. Do what you need to do to get in their 8-10 cups of water a day!

6.) Drink Apple Cider Vinegar

Raw apple cider vinegar has tremendous health benefits. Among them include making your system strong. While a shot size amount is preferred, mixed with water; you could do a smaller amount and mix it in a smoothie, or with water and honey to make it go down smoother and make the overall taste sweeter.

 

 If you’re looking for ways to help your family fight off illness during the flu season, try these natural suggestions to keep everyone in your home healthy and happy!