This time of year, there is no shortage of tips for avoiding or treating colds and flu. I’ve been culling through the newest bits of advice, and here are the ones I think are worth heeding.
The About Germs site references the Center for Disease Control (CDC)’s tips for how to avoid cold and flu. First and foremost, they recommend getting a flu shot, especially if you’re in a high-risk group, such as anyone over age 65, children under age 5, people with chronic health problems, caregivers, and pregnant women. Remember, flu season doesn’t peak until February.
Despite our best efforts to avoid getting sick, we all occasionally succumb to cold or flu. The key is to take the proper time to rest and recover. ABC News’ recent article for Women’s Health (although the advice is relevant for men too) focuses on how to Get Well Faster when you do get sick. I particularly like the tips for using over-the-counter (OTC) medications. I can’t stress enough how important it is to follow the dosage directions for maximum benefit.
The real value of the OTC products specifically for cold and flu is that they provide relief of your symptoms until your body can summon its own defenses to defeat the germs that have invaded your body. This usually takes a few days, so follow directions carefully. You can actually slow down your body’s “army of antibodies” by overmedicating.
I know many of you take Zicam® for helping you through when you are sick, but if you don’t like the taste or the high price tag, check out our natural zinc and elderberry lozenges. I prefer them—they help build up the immune system and they taste good.
And remember, we’re here to help you through. Please let us know what you need.
Stacey
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