Staying Healthy this Flu Season—6 simple steps

It’s that time of year again—flu season. Between the time where the kids are getting off to school again and spring break, it’s that time of year when the flu seems to affect our daily lives again. So, here’s some helpful tips on how to keep you and your family healthy this flu season.

1) Wash your hands frequently, and avoid the anti-bacterial products

Flu is a virus, not a bacteria; and you have normal flora (bacteria that’s supposed to be there) on your skin that helps as the first line of defense. Using regular hand soap and washing with really warm water for 30 seconds will do the trick to get rid of the virus before it has a chance to infect you.

2) Get plenty of sleep

Your brain heals and repairs your body when you achieve “REM” (or, deep) sleep. So, be sure to have good “sleep hygiene” to ensure a good night’s rest. Good habits include, but are not limited to:  avoid glowing screens a half hour before bed, have the same bed time routine each night, avoid caffeine an hour before bed time, etc.

3) Exercise regularly, if not a little more

 Exercise boosts blood flow, improves energy, has been shown to battle depression, and can aid in keeping you healthy during flu season. Shoot for 4-5 days each week for a minimum of 30 minutes per-session.  I would encourage those of you who are only “cardio warriors” to try getting regular strength training sessions in each week, as well.

4) Eat better

Simple words, but easy to follow. For example, start reading the ingredients list—if sugar, high fructose corn syrup are in the first couple ingredients, don’t buy it! And, if you can’t pronounce it, you probably shouldn’t be feeding it to your family. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be challenging, but it is a challenging choice one has to make to get healthier. If you don’t know where to start, just ask.

5) Get on a good supplement system

 I use and recommend Pure Encapsulations for me, my family, and patients. Pure Encapsulations provide a simple, daily pack for men and women and offer a great chewable for my daughter. This is an easy way to have a positive impact on your family’s health. We carry it in the office since only health care professionals can carry it; feel free to ask questions.

6) Get adjusted regularly

Your brain and nervous system control everything in your body. Even if you popped into the office to get your neck adjusted one extra time each week, it would help you stave off the flu. Why? The nerves in your neck control the glands and organs in your head, neck, and upper body, which is also your first line of defense with the flu (mouth, eyes, nose, throat, etc.). Ensuring that your brain can send signals to those areas with no interruptions gets those areas working more efficiently.