5 Steps A Doctor Takes To Prepare For Cold And Flu Season

FluIt might surprise you to learn that the NHS doesn’t recommend taking vitamin C supplements, echinacea, or garlic to ward off or recover faster from seasonal sniffles.“There’s little evidence that supplements such as vitamin C, echinacea or garlic prevent colds or help you get better more quickly,” the health service says. So perhaps it’s no wonder they don’t appear on the main list of steps Dr Kaywaan Khan, a GP and the founder of Hannah London Clinic, told us to take ahead of cold and flu season. Instead, he says, “While flu vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, everyday habits like sleep, nutrition, and hand hygiene can play a significant role in keeping your immune system in check and well-supported”. The doctor says that his advice is as follows: 1) Prioritise sleep Dr Khan explained that “Deep sleep regulates the release of cytokines, proteins that help fight inflammation, along with infection-fighting cells and antibodies”. That’s why seven to nine hours’ kip a night is key to keeping your immune system healthy, which will protect you from more than just colds.If you do develop the flu, the GP added, your body will send out signals to make you sleepy ― “This further reinforces the need for restorative sleep, which is just as important as any supplement or medication when it comes to flu prevention and recovery.” 2) Eat wellThough the benefits of many supplementsare still up for debate, there’s no denying that eating a healthy diet can keep you healthier for longer. “Filling your plate with a colourful mix of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins not only provides... vital nutrients but also targets your body’s needs for stronger resistance,” Dr Khan said.“This includes supporting white blood cell production and maintaining mucosal barriers (the protective lining of the nose, throat, and lungs), which act as our body’s first line of defence.” Side note: both the NHS and Dr Khan advise taking vitamin D in cooler months.3) Wash your handsOK, it might sound obvious. But while most of us know the advantages of keeping our hands clean, the GP stresses the importance of consistency.“Viruses can survive outside the body for hours, allowing them to spread easily through contaminated surfaces and travel via unwashed hands. However, since we tend to unconsciously touch our face, mouth, and eyes, they serve as main entry points for the virus,” he said.“This is why regular, thorough handwashing with antibacterial soap and water for at least 20 seconds can significantly lower your risk of catching illnesses.” If that’s not an option, a handwash of at least 60% alcohol can help in a pinch.4) Get your over-the-counter treatments now Not only is the snivelling lozenge pilgrimage to your local pharmacy very uncomfortable, but it can also spread your flu to others.So, Dr Khan advised, buy your over-the-counter cold and flu treatments before they’re needed. “Make sure you stock up on enough over-the-counter (OTC) essentials such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and throat lozenges,” he advised. “Saline sprays can also be handy if you’re prone to nasal congestion or a blocked nose, which typically occurs at the beginning of the infection.” 5) Get your flu vaccineIf you’re able to get a flu vaccine, try to do so as fast as possible, Dr Khan said.“Since it takes about two weeks for immunity to build after the jab, it’s advisable to book an appointment with your GP before cases begin to spike, ideally before October,” he wrote. This is also important because “each year’s vaccine is updated to match the recent variants”. Dr Khan ended, “As long as you schedule flu vaccinations yearly, stock up on essential medication, and attend regular GP consultations, you can reduce the risk of severity and recover without medical interventions”. Related...Can A Hairclip Help Cure Migraines? I Asked A Doctor4 Napping Mistakes A Sleep Doctor Would Never Make6 Symptoms A Lymphoma Doctor Would Never, Ever Ignore

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