Influenza (flu) season begins in fall and peaks in winter, but can last through May. In recent years the flu has become increasingly difficult to treat. Flu shots definitely do their part toward boosting immunity, but with rapid adaptations to the virus, the flu is notoriously hard to beat. The best medicine is prevention. Luckily, there are many natural remedies and aids to help your body survive the flu season sans illness.

Sanitize

Proper hand washing rules are well known among adults, but during the flu season it’s always wise to review. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water, scrub underneath your nails and count to 20 before rinsing. As always, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. It’s best to keep your hands away from your face to avoid self-inoculation (transferring germs from one body part to another). Remember to sanitize items that you use daily (your phone, beauty products, etc.). Your office can also be the perfect place for germs to thrive. Clean your keyboard and any tangible surface you come in contact with. If you have to go to a public place, use a disposable or washable napkin to open doors or handle items. If you need to write something down, bring your own pen instead of using the one that’s provided. It’s also important to avoid sharing items that can transmit illness when shared, such as cups, glasses or cosmetics.

Get Enough Sleep

Flu season reinforces the need for adequate sleep. Adults should get seven to nine restful hours each night to maintain optimum health. If you are tossing and turning throughout the night or struggle to stay asleep, make sure to do all that you can to remedy the issues that prevent you from getting the vital sleep you need. Your body needs a fair amount of sleep to devote energy toward fighting off germs and viruses. Listen to your body and seek extra rest if you are feeling fatigued. If a solid seven through nine hours is too difficult to achieve with your lifestyle, commit to taking naps to help you recharge.

Watch Your Diet

While we all understand the benefits of eating and drinking healthfully, the flu season offers yet another reason to commit. Increase your water intake while reducing your consumption of alcohol. Give your immune system a boost with juicing and the addition of supplements. Some of the most beneficial supplements include zinc, vitamin d, glutathione, turmeric and vitamin c. Protein rich foods will also help your body fight illness. Avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar and stock up on fruits and vegetables.

While it is true that more than two hundred thousand Americans are diagnosed with the flu each year, you don’t have to fall victim to the virus too. Be aware of people who are showing symptoms, sanitize often and treat your body well. The flu is avoidable when the proper prevention methods are observed.