Khaberni - The medical website Medical News Today reported that all international and national health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), agree that getting vaccinated against the flu annually, usually in the fall and winter, is crucial to prevent not only the disease itself but also the potential serious complications that may arise from the virus. Flu vaccines are safe and effective, but some individuals may still be concerned about potential side effects. Common side effects are mild and short-lived, and may include low-grade fever, headaches, muscle pain, and nausea. These side effects are expected, and are often a sign that the vaccine is working. Others may be worried about feeling faint during vaccination, which can be due to anxiety about needles or vaccines.
Before the Vaccine
According to the website, for those who are concerned about dizziness and fainting during or right after the flu vaccine, Michelle Rothenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished, recommended staying well-hydrated and eating light, whole foods. She advised: "To help prevent dizziness or feeling light-headed, keep your body well-hydrated and eat a light, balanced meal before getting the flu vaccine." She also stated: "Drinking water or herbal tea boosts circulation and maintains blood volume, which helps prevent fainting and keeps energy levels stable. Consuming a light meal containing protein and complex carbohydrates, like a banana with nut butter, helps stabilize blood sugar levels, providing steady energy and reducing the risk of weakness or dizziness during and after the injection."
The website continued, Shebnem Onluişler, who holds a master's in genetic engineering and is the chief longevity officer at the London Institute for Regeneration in the UK, explained that while food and drink cannot change the effectiveness of the flu vaccine itself, some options can help the body respond more smoothly and mitigate common side effects. She also stressed the importance of stable blood sugar levels before getting the vaccine, especially for those who might feel dizzy or anxious about needles. Onluişler recommended eating a light meal rich in protein and complex carbohydrates before the flu vaccine and suggested having yogurt with oats or whole-grain toast. She also warned that even mild dehydration can increase feelings of dizziness and recommended drinking water or an electrolyte-rich drink as a simple preventive measure.
After the Vaccine
According to the site, Elena Roelt, a nutrition therapist at Health.Miro, stated that when it comes to what to eat and drink after the flu vaccine, it is crucial to consume a balanced meal filled with a variety of nutrients. She explained that after receiving the flu vaccine, the immune system initiates an inflammatory response to process the vaccine antigens, followed by the formation of antibodies by B cells to provide protection against the virus. This process involves oxidative stress and inflammation as part of immune activation and memory cell development, which are necessary for effective immunity but might also temporarily challenge body balance, as explained by the nutritionist. Roelt suggested: "A balanced meal including all the required nutrients would be a chicken broth rich in easily digestible protein, garlic, onions, carrots, broccoli, or any other leafy vegetables, and mushrooms, paired with berry-based beverages like cranberry tea or sea buckthorn with manuka honey, providing vitamin C and polyphenols to modulate inflammation and oxidative stress."
The site continued, according to Roelt, this combination aids in supporting the immune system's recovery, reduces potential side effects, and enhances the body's response to the flu vaccine. Additionally, Onluişler recommended consuming turmeric and oily fish rich in omega-3, which help alleviate inflammation without weakening the adaptive immune response. She added: "A diet rich in protein, such as lean meats, legumes, and tofu, provides the amino acids necessary for antibody production."
Roelt also emphasized that maintaining body hydration is another important consideration for improving circulation, as it assists in the transport of nutrients and immune cells necessary for an effective response to the vaccine. She added that hydration could also reduce the severity of side effects like headaches and fatigue, and help the body regulate its temperature. Onluişler remarked: "Water, herbal tea, or broth can help the body regulate its temperature and manage mild symptoms after the vaccine."
