2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
Flu season is upon us. It is possible to make some daily changes to our habits in order to face it and stay he althy.
A cold or the flu?
The Public He alth Agency of Canada explains that the flu is highly contagious. She adds that the flu can spread quickly and easily and is transmitted even before we feel the symptoms ourselves1. It is common for people to confuse the flu with the common cold. They are described on the He althy Canadians site to better help you identify them. Finally, it should be remembered that a cold is generally unpleasant and that the complications are less severe than those of the flu.
Prevent the flu
Still according to the Public He alth Agency of Canada2, the flu can be prevented in several ways: by receiving the flu vaccine; washing your hands frequently; coughing and sneezing into the crook of the arm (rather than into the hand); cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces touched by many people; getting enough rest and sleep; engaging in moderate physical activity and eating a he althy diet to keep yourstrong immune system.
The immune system
According to a recent survey3, about 80% of Quebecers say they make lifestyle changes to help their immune system during cold and cold season. influenza. However, only 18% change their diet to include immune-supporting nutrients4.
However, for people who have a balanced diet, their immune system is more likely to be efficient since a he althy diet will meet your nutritional needs. Taking a multivitamin is also an excellent habit to put in place to strengthen your immune system.
Nutrients
Several nutrients5 play a role in the immune response. These include vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc. Here are some examples of foods that can be added to your menu to get these nutrients.
Vitamin A: liver, fish, egg, carrots, mangoes, sweet potatoes, etc.
Vitamin C: peppers, orange, cantaloupe, strawberry, broccoli, tomato, etc.
Zinc: raw farmed Atlantic oysters, beef, sesame seeds, legumes, etc.
Establishing a daily routine and habits can help boost your immune system. To do this, it is a question of implementing, starting today, a few changes at a time.
1 https://he althycanadians.gc.ca/publications/diseases-conditions- Maladies-conditions/fact-sheet-flu-grippe-faits-feuillet/index-eng.php
2 https://he althycanadians.gc.ca/publications/diseases-conditions- Maladies-affections/tear-pad-flu -grippe-bloc-feuilles/index-eng.php
3 Perceptions And Behaviors Around He althy Eating Survey, Oct. 2016
4 Perceptions And Behaviors Around He althy Eating Survey, Oct. 2016 5 Isabelle Huot et al., Stimulate your immune system, Les Éditions de l'Homme, 2008
