Cold And Flu Season Is Here. Are You Ready?

Cold and flu season is here again in the U.S. Flu season in the U.S. is considered October through May. Flu season in Australia is considered May to October. Flu seasons also exist in the tropics and subtropics, but are usually less sharply defined.

Most uncomplicated colds will last between eight and nine days. Up to 25% of colds will last about two weeks or more, and about 5-10% can last up to three weeks.

Colds and flu symptoms can make us feel so uncomfortable that many of us will need to take some time off school and work.

According to a report by the CDC in 2011, approximately 38 million school days are lost annually in U.S. because of seasonal flu, and 22 million school days are lost annually in U.S. because of colds. Additionally, up to 111 million workdays are lost in U.S. because of seasonal flu.

During cold and flu season it is especially important to optimize our immune system to help protect against these infections. Some of the ways that we can do this are:

1. Increase your Vitamin D levels through healthy sun exposure.

2. Limit sugar intake.

3. Keep your gut flora in balance.

4. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables.

5. Get between 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

6. Exercise with care.

7. Avoid emotional stressors.

I have included for your viewing pleasure a wonderful video from Dr. Mercola called "First Thing To Do When a Cold or Flu Strikes", in which he discusses many important tips on what to do when a cold or flu strikes, and how to optimize our immune system during cold and flu season.

How do you take care of yourself during cold and flu season? What are some of the ways that you optimize your immune system?