How to Prevent Cold and Flu Virus

During the influenza season it's nearly impossible to avoid exposure. However, there are things you can do that could mean the difference between a few sniffles and full-blown influenza. Your immune system can be fortified to ward off the virus.

Studies have shown that a healthy, low calorie breakfast can actually protect you against cold and flu viruses. Eating healthy at the very onset of a cold or flu increases levels of gamma interferon, an antiviral agent. And of course the opposite is true as well. Skipping meals lowers the gamma interferon levels and allows the virus to get a foothold.

Light stress is another method of fighting influenza. Getting involved in a challenging project helps boost immune system proteins which stimulate the immune system's response mechanism. Light stress prepares the body for possible harm and stimulates your immune resources.

Too much stress can have the opposite effect and lower your immune system's responses. Those who hold a high-stress job should try to reduce their daily stress, which in most cases, is easier said than done. But there are other measures you can take to fight influenza.

Green tea has been proven to be highly effective in the fight against influenza due to its high antioxidant content. In a recent lab study, green tea actually stopped a cold virus from duplicating.

Cranberry juice is also high in antioxidants so a mixture of green tea and cranberry juice can supply your body with powerful virus-fighting antioxidants. Drinking lots of water helps to flush out the bloodstream, kidneys and bladder.

Losing sleep reduces the effectiveness of your immune system. A good night's sleep produces cells that attack viruses. Taking over-the-counter cold remedies to help you sleep is not recommended as most of them contain some form of alcohol which impairs normal sleep patterns.

Influenza is typically communicated by touching a contaminated surface or when someone with the virus sneezes or coughs near you. Wash your hands often and use a hand sanitizing product.

Since airborne germs enter through bodily openings, you are very vulnerable when an infected person near you, sneezes or coughs. When you find yourself in this situation, the best thing to do is to turn your head, close your eyes, and hold your breath as long as you can to help stop the germs from entering your body.

Taking a multivitamin is highly recommended to help build your immune system. With today's fast paced world, it is very difficult at times to eat the right kinds of foods. Taking a multivitamin will help keep your immune system strong to fight off invading bacteria.

Therefore, the way to stay healthy in the influenza season is to have a low-calorie breakfast, get plenty of rest, and drink lots of green tea, cranberry juice and water. Wash your hands often and turn away when someone near you sneezes or coughs.