Flu is a nasty virus that threatens us every year. Keeping your immunity up is a great way to prep for the flu. Since the flu vaccine doesn’t completely protect you, you want to be ready to fight off the virus. Here are some supplements to prevent flu.
1.Zinc
Zinc has a powerful effect on the immune system. It helps you fight off cold and flu viruses, which is why flu medication over the counter often contains zinc. Naturally, you’ll find zinc in legumes, seeds, yogurt and seafood. You can also buy zinc supplements to boost your immunity during the winter season.
2.Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a mineral that is important to your overall health. It’s often known as the sunshine vitamin because you can get it from simply being outside.
Vitamin D supports bone health and your immune system. During the winter, when you’re spending more time inside, you can also get the vitamin in salmon, egg yolks and fortified foods, such almond or soy milk, OJ and yogurt.
3.Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 works closely with your immune system to fight off infections. It’s also vital to your brain development.
If you aren’t getting enough B6 in your diet from chickpeas, salmon, tuna and potatoes, find a supplement that boosts your inventory to make sure your immunity stays strong through the cold and flu season.
4.Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports immunity. Although taking vitamin C can’t prevent the flu, it can certainly reduce your symptoms because your body is more prepared to fight off the virus.
Studies show that vitamin C reduces the severity of symptoms and the duration of flu, colds and respiratory illnesses. Many types of homeopathic cough medicine contain vitamin C, but you should also be eating fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, oranges, pineapple and bell peppers.
5.Magnesium
Magnesium plays a key role in bone formation and heart health, but it also supports your immune response. In addition, magnesium can decrease inflammation and help your body deal with stress.
The good news, you can find magnesium in dark chocolate, as well as spinach, nuts, bananas and pumpkin seeds. Most adults don’t get the recommended daily amount through their diet, so it might be worth looking into a supplement for the cold and flu season.
Dealing With the Flu
You don’t want to go into flu season unprepared. Get your flu vaccine. Remember it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide protection. Eat healthy to support your immune system. Wash your hands frequently.
Use sanitizer when water isn’t readily available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Avoid close contact with others, especially those who are sick. Clean and disinfect surfaces that get a lot of human contact, both at work and home.
Don’t forget to manage your stress to keep your immune system healthy. Drink plenty of water. Stay home if you think you are sick. You may not be able to fully prevent getting the flu, but you can do your part to avoid passing it on to someone else.