It seems that every week, another friend succumbs to the flu and I’m sending the same tips to everyone trying to help!  Here are some great ways to help prevent or recover from the flu.

1. Rest Up:

Getting overtired and stressed is a surefire way to get run down and sick.  Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday. (Yes, even on weekends.)

2. Alkaline Foods:

Greens, veggies, nuts and sprouted foods are great for keeping our bodies in a state of alkaline, which WE WANT.  Animal proteins and fats are great, but they are highly acidic.  Eating too much of these things can set our bodies into over-acidic levels, which is when infections and colds can occur.  Start your morning off with lemon water.

3. Water, water, water:

Drink/sip all day long.  Keep your body, skin and organs well-hydrated, especially in the dry and bitter cold months of winter.  Warm it up if you prefer.

4. Zinc:

If you HAVE fallen victim to the flu/cold monster, a couple days of taking zinc will rebuild and strengthen your immune system.  I suggest 3-4 days worth, and then stop.  Also valuable:  Vitamin C and D, supplements and foods.

5. Epsom Salt Baths:

Nothing better than a nice warm bath in the dead of winter.  Adding Epsom salts will help relieve achy joint and the magnesium will help pull the toxins currently residing in your body.

6. Tea:

A nice tea with raw honey, lemon and fresh ginger is my go-to drink.  Echinacea (immune), Peppermint (upset tummy) or Green (anti-oxidants) are great ones to try.  Mix them up for a powerhouse blend.  This does NOT count toward your daily water intake. Even herbal teas are dehydrating,  only water is water! 

7.  Raw Honey:

Great for relieving sore throats thanks to the anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, plus, it’s delish!

Hope these tips help you get through the rest of old man winters woes!