As the cold weather sets in, and nasty bugs start spreading around means that cold and flu season is also on its way.

8 Easy Tips to Stay Healthy this Cold and Flu Season

As the cold weather sets in, and nasty bugs start spreading around means that cold and flu season is also on its way. We share 8 easy tips to stay healthy and strong this winter by incorporating daily habits that are proactive against colds and flu and will also boost your immune system.

New Zealand has been it hard with Influenza A this year which is a nasty strand of the flu. So read up and stay as healthy as possible- naturally by boosting your immune system.

Our Top pick of products are:

1. Winter Wellness Pack

Our go to starter pack to keep your immunity up this winter, and at a great price

2. Propolis Capsules

A great way to build your immunity up, and when you are feeling like you might get sick increase your dosage to increase your immunity

3. Manuka Oil

A natural way to keep your home and house clean and bug free check our post on how to use around your home as a natural cleaner

4. UMF 15+ Manuka Honey

High in natural antioxidants and natural makers unique to Manuka this product is a great way to help fight bacteria.

5. Propolis Extract

Natures antiseptic and this great little product can be added to warm drinks, gargled, mixed in with other products and also used for so many more things such as infections, cold sores – the list goes on

Propolis

Propolis is the sticky resin which seeps from the buds of certain trees. Sometimes called 'bee glue'. Propolis is blended with 'flakes' secreted from special glands on the underside of the bee's abdomen. It is used by the bee to: reduce the size of the hive entrance, plaster up unwanted holes to the outside, cover over and sterilize dead organic matter (insects) that are too large for the bees to remove, line and sterilize the interior of brood cells, and lastly to keep the hive antiseptic.

WHAT CAN PROPOLIS HELP WITH:

Propolis offers antiseptic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal, and even antiviral properties. Part of the antimicrobial properties against various bacteria and fungal infections is due to galangin, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid. 

Bundle Up

We were all taught at an early age to bundle up in the winter. It is still true! Dress in layers and you will be warm and comfortable at all times.  The extreme temperature change from indoor to outdoor can stress the immune system.

Stay Hydrated

Two thirds of your body is made of water, so staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your health this winter. I have read that you should aim for drinking eight glasses of water daily…and lattes don’t count!

If you are tired of drinking water, try drinking warm water with lemon and honey added or adding berries and fruit to your (warm or cold) water to naturally flavour it. It also looks pretty, too!

Eat Healthy

Eat your way to health this winter! You need to eat healthy to be healthy. A diet containing a lot of fruits, vegetables and lean protein works well for me. If you’re struggling to get the recommended servings of fruit and vegetables each day, try juicing them.

Plan your meals so that you have no excuse for not eating right. Eating foods that are high in Vitamin C will help keep your immune system strong, so include citrus fruits, kiwi, and broccoli in your winter diet. A healthy diet will also help you by fighting hunger, keeping your mood stable and decreasing your stress levels.

Exercise

Physical activity is essential to winter health. Continue your exercise routine through the winter to stay fit, boost your immune system function, decrease your stress level and keep your weight down.  Always try to add at least a half hour of exercise to your day.

Not all exercise has to be at the gym. Head outside on the nicer winter days and get some much-needed fresh air. Deep breathing, exercise and relaxing in the fresh air will make you feel amazing and totally recharge your batteries.

Wash Up Often

As children, we learned that hand washing is important. Frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs and control infection. Be extra diligent about hand washing during the cold and flu season. Also, always remember to wash your hands before touching your face or eyes.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting about eight hours of sleep every night is essential for avoiding dark circles under the eyes and it is also essential to keeping healthy. During the winter months with work, holidays and other activities, it is typical for sleep to be neglected.  Don’t let that happen!