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5 Tips to Prepare for Cold Season

Posted on by Paula Gallagher

cold+catWe are in the thick of it here. Coughing, runny noses and plenty of sneezing. The common cold took us by surprise, especially with the warm weather we have been having. So now we are all taking it a little easy, drinking plenty of fluids, and loading up on fruits and veggies. Here are five other tips to help you prepare for cold season. 1. Vitamin D – Immune support is just one of the many benefits of vitamin D. Research has shown that if your vitamin D levels are low, your immune system suffers. Start with 1000 mg per day and talk to your healthcare practitioner about getting your levels tested. You may need to take a lot more. 2. Sleep – Sleep may be the best treatment and prevention for colds and flu. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system – leading us to have a less than optimal fever response (fever is actually the body’s way of fighting infection), and less antibodies produced on exposure to these viruses. The result? Stronger symptoms and a longer duration of symptoms, compared to individuals who are getting adequate sleep. 3. Immune Support – Taking a formula that combines immune-supportive nutrients, along with nutrients to support adrenal health and fight stress, should be a no-brainer. Pathway Immune Support does all of this. 4. Reduce Your Exposure – This can be as simple as washing your hands, but don’t forget to limit exposure to those who are infected, too. If you have a cold or the flu, it is important to stay home – if not for your own rest and recuperation, then for the health and safety of others. Cold and flu viruses are spread by skin-to-skin contact, air particles, or direct contact with particles, like someone sneezing on you. In the case of colds, individuals are generally contagious the first 2-3 days, while flu sufferers are contagious for about a week. 5. Elderberry – This is one of my favorites! Rich in a specific type of flavonoid called anthocyanins, studies have shown that elderberry may reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms, such as cough, congestion and body aches. Photo from here, with thanks.
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