10 Ways To Fight The Common Cold and Flu

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1. Wash your hands well and often - not OCD often, but you know what I mean. Enough to get rid of the germs. And try to avoid touching things in public places, like door handles. I am getting really good at not holding onto the banisters in public stairways and escalators. Not that you should try that. I'm just sayin'...

2. Don't touch people who are sick. That means you can't kiss them either. Not even butterfly kisses or Eskimo kisses. Air kisses are probably fine, just don't get too close and maybe hold your breath. Colds and viruses are passed most commonly through the hands, and through rubbing the eyes, nose and mouth. If you've been around people, especially sick ones, try not to touch yourself unless your hands are clean.

3. Clean your house. I know, it's gross, but just do it. Or get someone else to do it. Be sure to tell them to wipe down surfaces like doorknobs, handles and stairway handrails. And tell them to not sneeze all over the place.

4. Stop eating crap. Eat your greens. Drink lots of water. A well balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables will boost your immune system, and water helps you function more efficiently. Efficiency rocks!

5. Exercise every... single (yes, that's what I said)... day. You don't have to go all marathon training crazy but just do something every day. Make it fun! Wooppee! Seriously, moderate daily exercise is a huge part of overall health, and will help your immune system fight illness. Oh, and you'll look all fabulous and everyone will give you compliments.

6. Take vitamin supplements. Every morning I take a multivitamin with antioxidants, calcium, fiber tablets, Holy Basil (reduces stress & cortisol) and Glucosamine w/Chondroitin. I'm not sure how they work, but I'm convinced they keep my immune system strong.

7.Eat spicy foods, such as peppers, because capsaicin, an ingredient found in spicy foods, has antibacterial properties and can help clear up sinuses.

8.Gargle with salt water to decrease inflammation and loosen phlegm.

9.Drink green or black tea because they contain antioxidants and polyphenols that help fight the flu virus.

10. Don't touch your eyes, mouth or nose, unless your hands are clean

Keywords: Health care, skin care, common cold, flu, heart care,