Khaberni - With the decrease in temperatures and the increasing chances of flu during the winter months, many face challenges in maintaining their health. Although the cold season may increase the risk of contracting viruses, there are some daily habits that can play a major role in strengthening immunity and maintaining overall health.
Here are four simple and effective tips to protect yourself from the flu during winter:
1. Wash your hands regularly - One of the easiest and most important ways to prevent respiratory illnesses and the flu is to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. Hand washing is one of the most effective preventive measures that can help reduce the entry of viruses into the body. It is recommended to wash your hands using soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially if you are in public places such as schools or markets. Flu bacteria often enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth, so personal hygiene is extremely important.
You can also add the habit of washing hands after touching shared surfaces such as doorknobs, phones, or upon returning home after leaving, which helps in preventing many viruses.
2. Get the flu vaccine - Although the flu vaccine is not a magic solution, receiving it each year in the cold season is an important step in prevention. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of contracting the flu and mitigates the severity of symptoms if infected. The vaccine is more effective if received regularly, as it helps reduce complications of the disease and protects vulnerable people such as the elderly or those with chronic diseases.
3. Adhere to the three pillars of health: sleep, nutrition, and exercise - It is important to provide your body with what it needs from rest, healthy food, and physical activity. Good sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise significantly contribute to strengthening immunity and increasing the body's ability to resist viruses.
Good sleep: Enhances the body's ability to regenerate and gives the immune system the strength to fight infections.
Proper nutrition: Includes eating fruits and vegetables that contain essential vitamins and minerals.
Regular exercise: Improves blood circulation and strengthens the immune system, which contributes to disease prevention.
4. Use dietary supplements to support immunity in winter - In the winter, the body may need some dietary supplements to enhance its immunity against viruses; it is advisable to take supplements of vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc, as these elements have been shown to strengthen the immune system and increase its ability to fight viruses.
