Fall and winter is typically when the cold and flu season is, but these are not the same illnesses. They are often confused because they sometimes start in the same way, but even down to the symptoms, they can be quite different. Take a look at these similarities and differences between cold and flu symptoms.
COLD SYMPTOMS
Many times, you know you feel ill but are not sure if you have the cold or the flu. The reason this is an important distinction is because they are treated somewhat differently, and while the cold is something you can handle at home, many cases of the flu require seeing a doctor. With a cold, the symptoms tend to be less severe, and often include congestion, a runny nose, cough, and sore throat. You might have a slight fever, but it is often not too severe. You may notice these symptoms for a few days or up to a week. The cold usually lasts fewer days than the flu.
FLU SYMPTOMS
With the flu, expect to experience your symptoms for a longer period of time, and often more severely. It may start similar to a cold, with a sore throat, cough, and congestion. However, the flu often leads to bad headaches, a high fever, worse cough, and muscle aches and pains. You may also notice that as the flu progresses, you start experiencing severe fatigue, to where you can barely get out of bed and move around. Some people with the flu may also experience diarrhea and vomiting. Since you are at risk for dehydration with the flu, you should see a doctor for proper treatment.
TREATING THE COLD VS THE FLUE
If you think you have the cold or flu, you might want to see a doctor in either case. With a common head cold that doesn’t get better in a few days, it is good to see a doctor and find out if it might be a sinus infection, flu, or other illness. Treating a head cold often includes getting plenty of fluids, rest, and treating your various symptoms. With the flu, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics or other medications, and hospitalization may be required in more severe cases.
If you have either the cold or flu wit vomiting and/or diarrhea, see a doctor. This can increase your risk of dehydration, so if you can’t even keep fluids down, you might need medical treatment.
My favourite natural supplements are the following:
Oregano oil – twice weekly for maintenance and 1 daily when sick (antibacterial and antifungal)
High quality Vitamin C
High quality Vitamin D (take with a healthy fat for absorption)
Zinc & Vitamin B
Lots of fresh lemons, grated ginger, turmeric & raw honey, with hot water.
NAC - NAC is necessary to make and replenish glutathione.
ECHINACEA
In terms of herbs and other natural remedies for your immune system, echinacea is definitely high on the list. You will see this herb recommended a lot for the cold and flu, and similar immune system illnesses, because it so beneficial. Echinacea has natural properties that help to boost your immune system and help you fight off bacterial and viral infections more sufficiently than if you were not taking it. There are many ways to get more echinacea, from supplements to using the actual herb.
PROBIOTICS
Probiotics might seem just like a trend or a hot topic, but that is only because of how beneficial they can be for your body. Probiotics are often promoted to people who have digestive issues, especially with a leaky gut. However, they can also help with your immune system and ensuring you have the best protection possible from the cold or flu. Probiotics provide bacteria for your body, but it is a good type of bacteria. This allows you to absorb more nutrients into your body and helps to support your immune system, so that you can fight off the bad bacteria. You can either take a probiotic supplement or eat a healthy diet to ensure you get enough of them through natural food sources.
HY FLU TEA
Not only something I developed and tested over the years but a must have in my house. I always have a bottle in my freezer and when someone needs I mix a spoon with some hot water. Nature gave us what we need to fight with we just need to use it.
10 WAYS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
You were born to be healthy and happy; you were not born to experience a lifetime of misery and sickness. Moreover, because of your hectic and busy lifestyle, you simply can’t afford to get sick. This takes some responsibility for you to remain healthy despite the challenges and obstacles of your daily life.
Good health is a critical factor for enjoying and succeeding in life. However, those changes in the seasons tend to get your body out of whack and more susceptible to illness. You need a strong immune system to weather to seasons without getting sick. Here are some easy tips to help strengthen your immune system.
Eat nutritious foods. During cold weather, flu and other infections threaten your health. Proper nutrition is very important for good health. Load up on fruit, vegetables, and healthy proteins. Avoid processed foods and artificial sugars. When you are sick, fuel up on nourishing soups with bone broth & miso for your digestive health.
Drink a sufficient amount of water. Studies have shown that drinking an adequate amount of water helps transport the white blood cells and other immune system cells you need to help stave off illness. Staying hydrated ensure you have proper blood circulation so these cells can get where they need to go to keep you healthy. Have green teas with ginger or make your own infusions.
Establish a regular sleeping habit. Inadequate sleep can result in poor productivity the next day. Setting a regular sleep schedule can improve the amount and quality of your sleep and help foster more productivity. Sleep is also when your body heals itself. Prolonged fatigue prevents your body from fighting off illnesses, making you more susceptible to getting sick. Most experts recommend eight hours of sleep a night for adults to maintain good health.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity helps improve happiness and health. It also burns fat and builds muscle to keep you strong.
Relax. Your daily routine and work schedule probably leave you feeling stressed and tense. Find ways to take a break and relax.
Laugh more often. The old adage “Laughter is the best medicine” has more truth than we realize. Loneliness, depression, and a negative outlook have been shown as contributing factors in a variety of ailments and illnesses.
Include spices and herbs. Spices like onions, ginger, fresh turmeric and garlic have components that can strengthen your immune system.
Enjoy some early morning sun. It is one of the best things that you can do to boost your levels of Vitamin D, which is essential to healthy lungs and bones.
Avoid using too many antibiotics. Recent studies have found that antibiotics can attack essential bacteria in the digestive system and can overpower natural immune functions.
Enjoy life. Living in misery open the door to infections. Try to embrace the day and live life to the fullest. Have fun, and you will be surprised just how healthy and happy you feel.
These tips can keep your immune system operating at its best and will help you fend off those seasonal colds and illnesses so you can actually enjoy those winter months!
Join in my Medicinal Cooking Class Green Medicine in May – We are focusing on Supporting Your Immune System
Yours in health
