We refuse too.
Gone are the days where “sick” meant hanging in bed, catching up on cartoons, while mom delivered soup and snuggles. Sick now, as working professionals is nothing short of an intense inconvenience. Not even Netflix can cure the misery of laying in bed, sneezing, wheezing, fevering, while e-mails pile up and voicemail boxes overflow.
This year’s flu is a humdinger with the powerful ability to wipe you out for days. So, how does a subway riding city girl survive? Good foods.
Karlene Karst, a Registered Dietician and best-selling author, recommends 5 types of foods to help you stay in the game during cold and flu season.
Garlic: Strangely enough, this potent yet delicious additive is actually one of the world’s healthiest foods! Garlic has powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help keep viruses and bacteria from taking hold and replicating in our bodies. Remember to add LOTS to your food when cooking! Chopping it fresh is best, but it can be minced and put into the fridge for a couple days.
Mushrooms: These little fungi have some of the most incredible immune boosting properties, packed with Selenium and antioxidants, as well as B vitamins, riboflavin and niacin which support a strong, healthy immune system.
Raw Honey: Raw honey has been used since the ancient times for its powerful healing properties, as this superfood contains antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties to protect you from the elements. Just make sure it’s RAW.
Pomegranates: This wonder-fruit is in season right now, and it’s jam-packed with Vitamin C, which is a natural antioxidant that helps boost the immune system. All brightly colored fruits and vegetables (yellow peppers, apples, etc.) are great for your immune system!
Water: Yes, we know we need to stay hydrated, but many people don’t know why this is so important during the cold and flu season! Viruses LOVE dry surfaces – they attach to dry surfaces and replicate throughout your body. Staying extra-hydrated can actually keep the virus from taking hold in the first place! You can add effervescent Vitamin C packs (3 per day) to your water to give you an energy boost, and reduce your likelihood of getting sick by up to 50%!
Lastly, it’s still important to wash your hands! Remember to use soaps infused with essential oils, not alcohol. Alcohol dries out your skin, making it more attractive for viruses to stick to. Go all Melvin Udall with it.
