Brought to you by CARA Pharmacy
Now we just need a cure for man flu…
The nights are closing in, temperatures are dropping, and decorations are popping up for a holiday that is still too far away to mention. Winter can be a tough time on our immune systems, but there is no shortage of things you can do to help keep on top of things.
We’ve teamed up with CARA Pharmacy to help keep you in good nick this winter. As long as you’re stocking up on the right stuff, there’s no reason why you can’t get through the season without having to go through a cold or flu.
There’s nothing worse than having to stay inside all day contemplating how you took for granted your ability to breathe through your nose. Prevention is better than cure, and just yelling at yourself won’t do the job sadly…
Exercise regularly
This doesn’t have to mean a cross-country run or 20km cycle. It’s hard enough to do that kind of thing at the best of times, never mind this time of year!
Whether it’s a trip to the gym or a walk after work, exercise plays a huge role in keeping colds and flu at bay. Exercise is a natural antidepressant and helps the body produce antibodies, which helps keep you as healthy as can be.
DON’T stay indoors all the time
Contrary to popular belief, avoiding contact with people may not be the best way to avoid the worst symptoms of a cold or flu. Despite other people being the likely cause of you being sick, research shows that loneliness can make your symptoms significantly worse.
Feeling alone or depressed can increase our levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can make our immune system more vulnerable. Hazmat suits are optional, but be sure to keep in contact with those closest to you!
Eat the right stuff
Diet should be your priority when trying to protect your immune system, so it’s important you know what to get. Eat plenty of Vitamin C and green vegetables, as both are proven to help protect you from colds and flu.
Broccoli, kale, Brussel sprouts and spinach are all good shouts as they are packed with nutrients like Vitamin A. Adding garlic and onion to just about any of your dinners will help a good bit too.
Stay off the drink
We hate to break it to you, but alcohol can increase your chances of catching a cold or flu. Alcohol can end up weakening your immune system, making you more likely to have to call in sick for work.
There’s a lot to be said for having a cup of green tea when you’re at home as well. It’s packed full of antioxidants that will help stave off any afflictions that might be coming your way.
Keep your hands away from your eyes and mouth
This is a lot more difficult than it sounds, but can make a huge difference. Your hands touch a lot of germ-covered things every day, from dusty keyboards to door knobs.
A good way to keep your hands clean at work is keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer on your desk. Once you start hearing your co-workers coughing, your best bet is to keep your hands as clean as possible.
Whether you’re trying to prevent a cold or are trying to recover from one, CARA Pharmacy has everything you need. With 16 stores all over Ireland, you can find special offers on everything from fragrance and skin care to medicines and vitamins in their stores.
Brought to you by CARA Pharmacy
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