The symptoms of flu are very similar to those of influenza or other acute infectious diseases: fever, headache, discharge, nasal congestion, chills, fatigue, mild body aches, and sneezing.
Although the effects are more pronounced than for a cold, they are less pronounced than for real flu and usually last only a few days. However, some natural means are very effective in reducing flu-like symptoms. Discover them!
Eat foods that strengthen the immune system
Flu-like status usually occurs during the change of season as winter approaches. To prevent or counter symptoms as soon as they appear, it is recommended to include in your diet products that contain a host of vitamins and nutrients essential for the proper functioning of the immune system such as fruits, vegetables, cereal, or dairy products.
According to several studies, a deficiency in only one of these micronutrients: zinc, selenium, iron, copper, calcium, folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E2,3, could create dysfunction of the immune defense. It is important to have a diversified diet and above all, to avoid eating foods very high in trans or saturated fats and fast sugars.
Fruits and vegetables are to be consumed in large quantities in general and more particularly in the case of flu. The antioxidants they contain help fight free radicals, which promotes a stronger immune system.
Incorporate garlic and onion into your meals, foods with antimicrobial properties
Different foods contain antimicrobial substances that help fight flu-like symptoms, including garlic and onion. Abundantly present in garlic, allicin is a compound that exhibits strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. In order to get all the benefits of this substance, it is necessary to consume a large amount daily, between 4 and 5 pods.
Garlic also contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals and thus strengthen the immune system. Onion also contains allicin, which gives it the same antibacterial and antifungal properties as garlic. It also contains quercetin, an antioxidant from the flavonoid family that is responsible for pigmenting fruits and vegetables.
Take rest and consume chicken broth
Rest is probably one of the most important healing factors for quickly recovering from a flu-like state. Make sure you get enough sleep, between 7 and 8 a.m. a day for an adult. In addition to sleep, you can consume chicken broth, a comfort food that enjoys some notoriety for its beneficial effect in treating the flu.
Studies have shown that some of these constituents have anti-inflammatory properties, which would minimize the intensity of symptoms.1. Another research concluded that chicken broth was more effective than hot water.2.
Move to flush out toxins
Physical training can help cure flu-like symptoms if they are minor and mostly felt in the area above the shoulders. Thus, a short session of low- or medium-intensity sports can help relieve sore throats, clear sinuses, and decongest the airways.
Studies have shown that running promotes faster healing without the need for medication. Physical activity, practiced moderately, stimulates the immune system which helps fight infections. However, it is necessary to refrain from playing sports in case of fever, generalized muscle pain, strong cough, and difficulty breathing.
Fighting flu-like symptoms with herbal remedies
The medicinal plants that can soothe the flu state are multiple. Ginseng, yarrow, thyme, and echinacea are natural remedies frequently used to calm different symptoms such as cough, discharge, and nasal congestion.
Enjoying a great reputation, especially in Asia, ginseng is effective in stimulating the immune system. In a trial conducted in Canada, this herb was more effective than a placebo in reducing symptoms associated with the common cold1. In addition, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the use of ginseng to tone and reduce fatigue. Yarrow is also used to invigorate the body.
Thyme, usually associated with climbing ivy or primrose root, is known for its soothing properties with respect to coughing and inflammation of the respiratory tract. With respect to echinacea, studies conducted in 2006 and 2007 demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing the intensity and duration of cold symptoms.2-3.
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