Follow these lifestyle recommendations to help minimize your chance of getting this year’s flu:

1. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water regularly and avoid close contact with anyone who has flu symptoms (sore throat, fever, chills, body aches, severe fatigue, loss of appetite and non productive cough).
   
   
2. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (or Listerine like mouthwash). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate and show symptoms. Simple gargling can prevent proliferation. Also clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water with a Neti pot.
   
   
3. Get adequate sleep.
   
   
4. Stay very well hydrated. ½ your body weight in oz (i.e. if you weigh 140 drink 70 oz of water).
   
   
5. Eat healing/immune supportive foods such as: garlic, onions, cooking herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano, etc), ginger, medicinal mushrooms (shiitake and reishi)
   
   
6. Ensure intake of adequate protein with each meal.
   
   
7. Decrease stress levels through exercise and proper sleep.
   
   
8. Make sure you have adequate Vitamin D levels- Have your healthcare provider check.

List compiled by Molly Gray, ND, LM