5 Ways To Beat Cold And Flu

When you have small children in nursery or in school, winter can mean an endless cold and flu season, when at least one family member always seem to be under the weather. It’s hard to avoid it as little children don’t particularly keen on washing hands or covering their mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing. No matter how hard you try to teach them to practice good hygiene etiquette, they still forget about it or just too busy. At the beginning of the cold season it’s good to know what can we do in order to avoid winter sicknesses.

1. Eat healthy food

Eat food which boosts the immune system: fresh fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruit, ginger, garlic, spinach, almonds and broccoli are especially supportive.

2. Wash your hands

Regularly. And after every handshake, when you get home after your commute and before eating. Keep a a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your bag, but even wet wipes are better than nothing! Also encourage the children to not to touch  their eyes and nose with dirty hands.

3. Get enough sleep

I know as a parent of two small children I’m not getting enough sleep. Mainly because I stay up late by choice. This is a habit which is very harmful for my body, especially on long term. Getting at least hours sleep is essential for the immune system.

4. Stock up on over the counter cold meds

Be prepared, so you have everything by hand when you need it and you don’t have to search for 24/7 pharmacies. Paracetamol, nurofen, cough syrup and nasal spray are the most important to have at home – both for grown ups and for the children. Now you can order them online hassle free from The Independent Pharmacy

5. Drink plenty of fluids

Dehydration can easily occur when you are running a fever. Herbal teas with lemon and honey are great for fighting the cold off and for boosting your mood too.