True Citrus Survival Guide: Cold & Flu Season

The holidays are over, and it is the start of a new year! After all the stress, excitement, and overindulging were finally ready to get our health back on track and get back to work. Then comes the sniffling, the sneezing, the coughing and body aches...oh, no...

This time of year is when our immune systems are at their weakest. We have already been through a long period of stress, and the cold weather makes us even more susceptible to illness. We already have a great article to help boost your immunity, but what if you have already caught a bug?

True Citrus Survival Guide for Cold and Flu Season

Get in those fluids!
You remember getting sick as a kid and your mom bringing you juice, lemon-lime sodas, and plenty of other liquids (maybe with a crazy straw)? There is a reason for it! Staying well hydrated is the best way to keep your body functioning optimally, which means helping your immune system kick the bad guys out as fast as possible. Just be sure that your fluids aren't high in added sugar, and add in a very small amount of sodium to boost electrolyte content (and help your body absorb water). An added bonus if your beverage of choice contains plenty of vitamin C as it assists with immune system support.
Choose rest over all else.
Whether it means calling in sick to work, asking a friend or partner for help with the kids or daily chores, or saying 'no' to a good friend's birthday party that you've been looking forward to, making rest your top priority is the most important step towards healing. With your immune system already weakened its going to need to work double hard to get rid of a virus, which means you need to give it the time to duke it out. This means taking a couple of days off to rest, no matter how difficult. Not only will you be less likely to spread your illness to others, but your symptoms will last for a shorter amount of time.
Crack a window.
This may seem like the last thing you want to do, but getting some fresh air circulating can do a world of good! All those hours you've been spending indoors coughing and sneezing can allow germs to settle, and possibly infect others. Let that fresh breeze get the airflow going and move that stagnant air back outside!
Listen to your symptoms.
A lot of over the counter medications simply dull the symptoms of your illness, rather than truly fight the virus. They provide a false sense of wellness making you feel good enough to work, even though you should really be resting. Rather than taking a drug, listen to your symptoms. Feeling tired? You probably should be resting! Thirsty? Drink plenty of water and fluids. Support your body with what it needs and you will be back in good health in no time.
Keep it clean!
Toss those used tissues in the trash and wash your hands often. Sanitize anything you've been using frequently, including the door handle of the bathroom and the refrigerator door. Leaving these objects dirty can not only spread bacteria and viruses to others, but can compromise your already weakened immune system. Keep it clean, and keep the germs away.
Sip on tea.
Tea is a great way to soothe a sore throat, cough, and even an upset stomach. It is gentle, comforting, and hydrating - all important things when trying to relax and let your body heal. Add some True Lemon for alkalizing benefits which can help balance your body, and aid in digestion with absorption of vitamins and minerals. Here are some great warming drink recipes that are sure to help comfort and soothe.

Don't let a cold or flu stop you from enjoying the winter season. With these tips you can help your body fight off whatever comes your way. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any wellness plan, and if symptoms last for a longer period of time than usual.

[Credit: Dhal, Taylor. "Your Cold and Flu Season Survival Guide." Share Care.]
[Credit: Roizman, Tracey. "The Alkalizing Effect of Lemons."Live Strong.]