Check Out These Tips To Help Combat The Cold And Flu Season

Oftentimes, chemotherapy wreaks havoc on your immune system.  Your immune system becomes susceptible to the common cold and flu during treatments and the months afterwards.  Boosting your immune system can help to combat the bugs that want to attack your body during the winter months.

While it is always best to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns, this list can help you steer clear of the cold and flu while you focus on what you need to focus on – your recovery from chemotherapy.

Increase your fluid intake.

Keeping yourself hydrated, especially with water, can help regulate the concentration of electrolytes in our body.  Water will also flush out the toxins that your body needs to get rid of.

Focus on your healthy eating habits.

For many, eating more frequent smaller meals may be better than the three larger meals, especially if your stomach isn’t feeling too well.  Look at the foods high in protein to help assist with the healing of the body.  Eat the super fruits that will give you a boost of vitamin C and the vegetables high in fiber to assist in cleaning out your intestinal track.

Add a daily dose of supplements.

Vitamin D – the “sunshine vitamin” – is naturally low this time of year.  Low levels are closely associated with an increased risk of colds and flu.  Before starting any type of vitamin or mineral supplements, ask your doctor if you can benefit from them during your chemotherapy treatments.

Avoid your exposure to germs.

Public places are often filled with germs.  Think about all the places you touch while out in public.  The door handles at your favorite restaurant, the shopping cart at the grocery store, or the communal candy dish at work can all have germs.  It may be hard to avoid these germs, but you can avoid touching your mouth and nose until you are able to wash your hands.

Check your sleep habits.

Did you know your body does most of its healing when you’re sleeping?  Getting a good night’s sleep not only helps heal your body from cancer treatments, but will also help you be more efficient throughout the following day.

Remember to exercise.

Sometimes when you’re not feeling well, exercise is the last thing you want to do.  However, physical activity is one of the easiest ways to stimulate your body’s immune system.  Take a walk around the block or dance to music while you’re cooking dinner – a little bit of activity can go a long way to keeping you healthy.

Reduce your stress.

This can be easier said than done sometimes.  The body’s main stress hormone, Cortisol, is known to suppress the immune system and reduce your body’s ability to repair itself.  There are many ways to help decrease your stress levels.  Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and spending time with loved ones are all ways to decrease those stresses.