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I love the fall season. The changing leaves, the cooler weather… The only thing that can make this time of year unpleasant is the unexpected onset of cold or flu. This weekend, my little family got hit with a triple whammy: I had the flu, little Johnny had hand foot and mouth, and Madeline had an ear infection. Yowza! I call it the trifecta of germs. While there’s not much we could do for poor Johnny, we were able to make Madeline and I more comfortable. I managed to make it to Monday. From experience, I suggest you try these tips to survive cold and flu season.
Drink tea
When I’m sick, I don’t feel like drinking water. Warm tea is my favorite way to drink lots of liquids because it soothes my throat and makes me feel all cozy inside. Squeeze in some lemon for an extra boost of vitamin C!
Keep your hands away from your face
All those icky germs are coming from your nose and mouth. By keeping your hands off your face you are also helping to keep germs from spreading.
Get lots of vitamin C
You can drink OJ, munch on strawberries, or even tomatoes and broccoli if you’re feeling up to it.
Use a humidifier to ease dry, scratchy throats and coughing
We got our first humidifier last year and I can’t believe it took us so long to use one. There is something about the humidifier putting more moisture into the air that really helps with our middle of the night coughing and throat discomfort.
Eat chicken soup made from real broth
This old wives tale is actually very effective. It helps you to hydrate and the steam helps clear up congestion.
Stay hydrated
Drinking liquids thins out mucus which makes it easier to get out of your system. Everyone should drink at least 8 glasses a day, especially when you’re sick.
Eat garlic
Did you know that garlic is an antimicrobial that may be able to kill bacteria and viruses? Go ahead and throw some extra cloves in that chicken soup!
Take probiotics
A healthy amount of probiotics, either in capsule form or in your favorite yogurt, may give your immune system a boost.
Wash your hands
Because, let’s face it, if you’re suffering from an illness there’s no sense in spreading germs around, is there?
Use a nasal rinse
I know what you’re thinking: a nasal rinse is just some weird home remedy. We started doing nasal rinses after our twins got ear infections for the umpteenth time. I tried it on myself last year when I came down with a sinus infection and I’m telling you, this is the trick for clearing up runny noses and congestion. I use a homemade recipe of salt, baking soda and warm water. Or you can buy a kit that has everything you need.
A few days ago when we were all feeling our worst, I stopped at Walmart on the way home for work to stock up on cold and flu supplies. I’m a big tea drinker, so I grabbed some caffeine-free I Love Lemon tea to get me through the flu. I also had to get some Green Tea for those post-flu days when I’m back at work.
A cup of warm tea helps me to relax after a long day at work. Bigelow is a brand I’ve trusted for years because it always tastes fresh and the tea is made from quality ingredients. Plus it’s made in the USA! Visit the Bigelow website to learn more about how you can #TeaProudly. You should also visit their Facebook page for lots of share-worthy posts, or join one of their 24,000 followers on Twitter.
What’s your best tip for making it through the cold and flu season? And if you drink tea, do you #TeaProudly with Bigelow?
