As the pall of flu season descends upon us, taking preventive measures to safeguard respiratory health and well-being becomes more critical. Taking proactive steps, especially if you’re prone to contracting contagions like the flu virus or if you have pre-existing respiratory conditions, is vital to ensuring you stay healthy throughout the colder months.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most efficient methods and ways to care for your respiratory system.
Start With Nutrition
Ensuring your body is packed with vitamins and nutrients will help you build and fortify your immune system. A Balanced diet filled with nutritious food can help your body fend off the flu and other respiratory infections.
Foods to Consider:
Vitamin C fruits: Oranges, strawberries, and kiwis can give your immune system the boost it needs.
Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are both great antioxidants.
Zinc Sources: Nuts, seeds, and legumes support and build immune health.
Probiotics: Yoghurt, Kimchi and other fermented foods strengthen gut health, impacting your overall immunity to contagions.
Drinking plenty of water and taking daily supplements packed with vitamins are also essential for preparing your respiratory system for flu season.
Hygienic Practices
Viruses can spread swiftly through coughing, sneezing and physical interactions. Implementing hygienic practices can minimise your exposure and that of others.
Clean your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 15 seconds.
Use hand sanitiser throughout the day, especially in public spaces.
Disinfect surfaces you’re constantly in contact with, such as phones, keyboards and doorknobs.
Keep from touching your face, mouth, nose and eyes.
Air Purifiers & Improved Air Quality
As we spend more time indoors, our exposure to airborne viruses increases. Air purifiers are a great way to ensure air quality doesn’t stagnate, and help to maintain respiratory health throughout the flu season by limiting exposure to the virus.
Built-in systems called HEPA filters can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, removing airborne viruses and safeguarding health.
Exercise & Stay Active
Exercising regularly can strengthen respiratory health by improving your lungs’ efficiency. You should aim for 20 minutes of moderate exercise at least twice weekly.
Cardio-based exercises such as walking, cycling, and swimming can improve lung capacity. At the same time, low-impact activities like yoga or tai chi can help if you have a pre-existing respiratory condition.
Make it easier for your body to fight infections by staying active.
Flu Vaccination
Getting a flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against the virus this flu season. While it doesn’t promise 100% immunity, preparing your immune system reduces the chances of severe illness.
People who suffer from asthma, chronic respiratory health conditions, pregnant women, children, the elderly and anyone else who may be vulnerable should consider getting a seasonal flu jab.
Treat Symptoms Early
Once the tell-tale signs of the flu begin, taking immediate action can help prevent them from worsening. If you begin coughing, sneezing, or coming down with a fever, head to your closest pharmacy for flu-relief medication to ease discomfort.
Ensure you get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and seek medical assistance if symptoms worsen—especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Manage Daily Stress
A healthy mind equates to a healthy body. Staying in control of your stress levels can make it easier for your immune system to fend off respiratory infections, so finding ways to relieve stress is vital to staying as healthy as possible.
Three useful methods to reduce stress levels:
Meditate or mindfulness can ease your mind into a calmer state, unwinding mental tension.
Engage in activities or hobbies you’re passionate about, which boost serotonin and relieve stress.
Aim to sleep enough–between 7-9 hours a night is ideal for reducing stress.
To Wrap Things Up
Taking care of your respiratory health during flu season can be done effectively by boosting your immune system with a nutrient-rich diet, staying active, using indoor air quality systems like air purifiers and implementing good hygiene practices in your daily life.
Remember, staying proactive and taking the right precautions will help you stay healthy throughout the flu season.
