This year, the flu season seems to be ramping up again with a surge of the H1N1 strain, leading to more hospital visits and even severe cases. While getting a flu shot is important, a strong immune system supported by healthy diet, good hydration, a balanced lifestyle, and immune supplementation is also crucial. By washing your hands frequently and being cautious when in public spaces, you can also minimize your risks.
However, even if you follow all these steps, a powerful flu virus can still cause illness, especially among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. If you find yourself experiencing chills, fever, body aches, sore throat, and digestive problems, you might be battling this year’s flu. Here are some ways to help speed your recovery.
Drink Hot Liquids
When you have a sore throat, hot, healthy beverages can really help to ease the pain, clear phlegm, and boost your immunity. Hot water with lemon and honey is both soothing and hydrating, as well as being a great alkalizing drink. Bone broth, made from meat or poultry, can also help you to heal faster. Adding in vegetables and herbs like kale, ginger, garlic, onion, oregano, and turmeric can further enhance the therapeutic value and add flavor. To ensure you always have an immune-boosting drink on hand, keep some frozen broth ready to go.
Electrolyte Hydration
During flu recovery, it’s important to stay hydrated and not lose precious electrolytes. Proper hydration is essential for flushing out viruses and toxins, ensuring communication between immune cells, easing muscle and joint pain, and reducing inflammation. Electrolytes are necessary minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Drinking filtered water with added electrolytes, like the ones found in coconut water, can help to keep you hydrated better than commercial sports drinks.
Elderberry Extract
Elderberry has been used by herbalists for centuries to help fight infections, particularly viral illnesses. It has been shown to disarm the flu virus and promote faster recovery. However, only the extract has been proven effective, so consuming elderberry in jam or drinks may not have the same benefits.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Raw apple cider vinegar with the “mother” (beneficial organic material) can help to alkalize the body and create an inhospitable environment for germs. Mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into warm water and consuming it three to four times a day can clear mucus from nasal passages and combat sinus infections. Gargling with a 50/50 mix in water can soothe a sore throat.
Medicinal Mushrooms
A blend of potent medicinal mushrooms can enhance immunity during exposure to the flu. Species like agaricus, coriolus, cordyceps, umbellatus, reishi, and maitake, along with extra beta-glucans, are prized for their immune-boosting properties. Essentially, these mushrooms help to train immune cells to respond better to health threats.
Modified Citrus Pectin
Modified citrus pectin (MCP) provides support for cellular, immune, and cardiovascular health. It is becoming more recognized as an essential daily supplement for long-term wellness, particularly in cancer prevention, treatment, detoxification, and immunity. However, it’s important to use clinically researched MCP to ensure you’re getting the correct molecular size and structure.
Tibetan Herbal Formula
A blend of rare botanicals from a time-honored Tibetan formula can help promote immune activity and circulation while also providing antioxidant support. With over 35 years of clinical and laboratory research backing its efficacy, this herbal blend is a popular choice for immune and cardiovascular health.
The goal of a flu recovery program is to support your body’s healing processes from different angles. This means staying hydrated, keeping warm, resting, eating nutritious foods, and cutting out sugars and simple carbs that can lower immunity. By supporting your immune system with targeted ingredients, you can help shorten the duration of your flu and recover faster.
For more information on health and wellness, you can visit websites such as WebMD or Healthline.
