Is The Flu Going Around? How To Prevent The Flu

Is the flu going around where you live? It's definitely that time of year again--flu season! Don't just wait for the next flu bug to lay you low. Boost your immune system now by swatting that bug with these healthy tips. How To Prevent The Flu With Daily Exercise Exercise should be tops on your list. It can be hard to force yourself outdoors when it's cold, but when you do, the rewards are immediate. A recent study has revealed that people who took a daily walk for at least 12 weeks were half as likely to get sick as the couch potatoes among us. People who exercise daily also have lower stress levels. And lower stress levels are associated with a stronger immune system. So stop hibe ating inside, and get out in the fresh air. No matter how busy you are, set aside a half hour every day for a quick walk around the block. Wash Your Hands Your mother was right. Washing your hands often is a nearly fool-proof way to keep from getting sick. Why? Because the flu virus lurks everywhere, from door knobs, to shopping carts, to just about anything you touch. Keeping your hands clean is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy. Immune System Boosters Garlic has a reputation for killing bacteria, fungus, and even viruses. Most health gurus say that you have to eat it raw to get the most benefits from it. That may be true, but raw garlic can upset your stomach, and nobody really wants garlic breath. Add fresh minced garlic to your soups, sauces, and stir-fries, and you'll still get the benefits from it, even when it's cooked. Or try taking aged garlic extract instead. Eat more mushrooms! Did you know that mushrooms are loaded with vitami D? They also contain selenium, an essential nutrient for keeping your immune system at its peak. Throw them on top of your pizza, add them to soups and salads. More fungus among us is an easy way to stay healthy. Of course, eating a wide variety of fresh veggies and fruits is always recommended. Keeping a colorful array of food around will spice up the gray days of winter. Along with being a visual feast, these foods are loaded with the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your immune sytem working efficiently. Think you may be missing out on some vitamins? A vitamin supplement is always a good idea, especially during flu season. Adding more vitami C to your diet during the winter helps you resist colds and flu too. If the flu bug does manage to bite, extra vitami C will help you fight it off faster and recover sooner. Do you know how to prevent the flu now? These immune system boosters will help keep you healthy this winter.