How to get over the flu

Being sick once in a while is totally normal, even though catching a cold or flu is avoidable most of the time. The majority of people out there will tell you sick days are just part of being human. Waiting for a cold to run its course could cost you two full weeks of feeling lousy. No, thanks! Fight off that bug as soon as it comes. Follow these tips after the first sniffle or sneeze, and you’ll bounce back.

 

Drink up

The flu can leave you dehydrated, especially if have vomiting or diarrhea. So be sure to get enough fluids. Water is fine. So are fruit juices and electrolyte beverages. You may want to stay away from caffeinated drinks, because caffeine is a diuretic. Herbal tea with honey can soothe a sore throat. If you feel nauseated, try taking small sips of liquids; gulps might cause you to throw up. You know you’re getting enough fluid when your urine should be pale yellow, almost colorless.

 

Listen to your body and relax

If it’s telling you not to exercise, don’t. If it’s urging you to spend all day in bed, do it. Don’t press on with daily chores when facing a severe cold or flu symptoms. Rest is another way of supporting the body’s ability to fight infection. Rest and stay warm.

 

Have some soup

For generations, caring parents have been serving chicken soup to kids with colds and flu. And mom was right, a study published in the journal Chest showed that chicken soup helps with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections like the flu.

 

Avoid meat & dairy

If your digestive system is working overtime to break down animal foods that are heavier and take longer to digest, than your healing process will be slowed. Even if you’re not fully plant-based, it’s advisable for anyone to remove animal foods while they have a cold or flu.

 

Humidify

Breathing moist air helps ease nasal congestion and sore throat pain. One good strategy is to indulge in a steamy shower several times a day, or just turn on the shower and sit in the bathroom for a few minutes, inhaling the steam. Another is to use a steam vaporizer or a humidifier. Clean it often to make sure it’s free of mold and mildew.

 

Sweat

Do not exercising, because this will circulate more toxins through your body and make you feel worse. Instead, bring a towel or two into a sauna or steam room and sweat it out. Remember to sit on a towel and have one for wiping the sweat off of you frequently, or your skin will just re-absorb the toxins soaked up in the wood and on your skin.

 

Get the other hard candy

Cough drops, throat lozenges, and hard candy can be surprisingly effective at easing a cough or sore throat.