The last thing you would probably expect to read about on this Green channel is H1N1 – but there really is a connection. Before you book your doctor’s visit or rush off to get vaccinated, know that you can take many natural precautions to protect yourself against the H1N1 virus. Here are just a few easy ideas that the entire family can follow:
Catch up on your sleep. There’s no secret that a well-rested body is a stronger body which can better fight off sickness. A study at the Carnegie Mellon University found that a lack of sleep can increase your chances of catching a cold and flu. The study suggests that your body's immune system is working during sleep hours, kick starting body molecues called histamines and cytokines. Both of these help fight off illness.
Watch your diet. Curb your cravings for the drive-through and opt instead for more healthy fare. Fresh fruits and vegetables are your best choices. Whip up a fruit or tossed salad for the dinner table to offer plenty of variety and healthy immune system boosting vitamins and minerals. One example is Zinc! You can find Zinc in yogurt, milk, poultry, and fortified cereals. Zinc helps your body create white blood cells which fight off infections, bacteria and viruses.
Steer clear of preservatives in food. Food sprayed with chemical preservatives may last longer; however, it is unhealthy and doesn’t compare to the great taste of anything fresh. Anyone with asthma, hay fever or other allergies may find that preservatives like sodium benzoate will affect their breathing. Not something you want when you're fighting off a flu bug!
Exercise. This relates back to getting plenty of sleep. Whether you walk, swim, run, cross-country ski or go snowshoeing, regular fitness improves personal health.
Soak up the sun. The sun’s rays provide natural Vitamin D, which the human body needs. Vitamin D has been proven to help fight infections, improve blood vessel function and boost the immune system.
Relax. With our world racing past us and cellular telephones strapped to our waists, it’s often difficult to find some personal downtime. For your own physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health, you need to book a few moments for yourself. This could be a wonderful way to try something new in your life … yoga, anyone?
While taking these precautions will not guarantee you protection against the H1N1 virus, they can go a long way towards keeping you healthy. Live green to live well!
