· Optimize Your Vitamin D levels. As I've previously reported, optimizing your vitamin D levels is one of the absolute best strategies for avoiding infections of ALL kinds. This is probably the single most important and least expensive action you can take. Monitor with a blood test your Vitamin D to confirm your levels are within the therapeutic range ~ my doctor recommends Vitamin D level be at 90 ng/ml. There are vitamin D receptors found on cells in the immune system, and vitamin D can bind to these receptors. Vitamin D works in the immune system by reducing levels of inflammatory proteins called cytokines, as well as increasing the amount of antimicrobial proteins, which are naturally occurring antibiotics that destroy invading germs and viruses. This combination of lowering inflammation and increasing antimicrobial defenses can help an individual’s immune system fight infections more effectively. These actions also reduce the risk of developing pneumonia, which is the primary complication of influenza resulting in mortality.
· Avoid Sugar/Fructose and Processed Foods. Sugar impairs the function of your immune system almost immediately, and as you likely know, a healthy immune system is one of the most important keys to fighting off viruses and other illness. Be aware that sugar (typically in the form of high fructose corn syrup) is present in foods you may not suspect, like ketchup and fruit juice.
· Get Enough Rest. Just like it becomes harder for you to get your daily tasks done if you're tired, if your body is overly fatigued it will be harder for it to fight the flu.
· Have Effective Tools to Address Stress. We all face some stress every day, but if stress becomes overwhelming, then your body will be less able to fight off the flu and other illness.
· Get Regular Exercise. When you exercise you increase your circulation and your blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated, which means your immune system has a better chance of finding an illness before it spreads. Be sure to incorporate high-intensity interval exercises your routine.
· Take a Good Source of Animal-Based Omega-3 Fats. Increase your intake of healthy and essential fats like the omega-3 found in krill oil, which is crucial for maintaining health. It is also vitally important to avoid damaged omega-6 oils that are transfats and in processed foods as it will seriously damage your immune response.
· Wash Your Hands. Washing your hands will decrease your likelihood of spreading a virus to your nose, mouth or other people. Be sure you don't use antibacterial soap for this – antibacterial soaps are completely unnecessary, and they cause far more harm than good. Instead, identify a simple chemical-free soap that you can switch your family to.
· Tried and True Hygiene Measures. In addition to washing your hands regularly, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. If possible, avoid close contact with those who are sick and, if you are sick, avoid close contact with those who are well.
· Use Natural Immune Boosters. Examples include Elderberry Syrup, Oscillocoxinum, acupuncture, 100% pure essential oils.
· Avoid Hospitals. I'd recommend you stay away from hospitals unless you're having an emergency and need expert medical care, as hospitals are prime breeding grounds for infections of all kinds. The best place to get plenty of rest and recover from illness that is not life threatening is usually in the comfort of your own home.