Is everyone at work sniffling, sneezing and coughing? Do you have kids in the germ-factories that are schools and daycare? Are you going to be crammed into an airplane with a hundred other people, who will be coughing in your personal bubble for hours at a time?
Winter is the season of “cooties.” From the sore throat, to the cold that makes your nose feel like a faucet, to the full-on chills, and even the dreaded noro-virus pukes, it is NO FUN being sick in the winter.
Like you, we would much rather be outside skiing, snowshoeing, or playing in the snow, than be stuck indoors, feeling sick and miserable. The bad news is, there isn’t much you can do about other people to stay healthy. Friends, co-workers, and family will all inevitably share their germs with you.
The good news is, you CAN do some things to take care of yourself and potentially ward off colds and flus. Even if you get sick, a strong immune system, with plentiful white blood cells, will help make your illness shorter and more mild.
Keep your immune system in tip-top shape through this long winter of germs, with these four tips:
Wash your Hands
It may sound passé, but just like your mom says: “Wash your hands!”
Wash them frequently, especially after being out in public, and before eating. Try to avoid touching your face and rubbing your eyes until after you wash them. It doesn’t hurt to carry a bottle of Purell or some wipes if you are out running errands, and may not be able to wash up immediately.
You can help protect others when you are out as well. Cover your coughs or sneezes, and listen to Mom’s advice and “wash your hands!” Thanks, Mom.
Routine Acupuncture Treatments
Acupuncture is good for your body. It brings your systems into alignment and helps your energy flow freely.
It also stimulates your body’s immune system into action, causing the body to create more T-cells, which are the cells that fight viruses and bacteria. This inherently strengthens your immune system in preparation for exposure to colds, flu, etc.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Boost your immune system through safe, natural herbs. At Xian Herbs, we offer 3 proprietary blends, specifically for this time of year! They are pre-formulated and encapsulated, and are conveniently available over-the-counter. Come by and pick up a bottle any time!
Home Defense: This formula is designed to strengthen your immune system, keeping it tuned and ready for exposure to cooties!
Initial Attack: This formula is for a first response cold and flu symptoms. Start taking it when you feel that tickle in your throat, get a runny nose, or start feeling the “blah” feeling. This will help your body respond and fight off the infection, making the illness more mild.
Extended Campaign: This formula treats deeper sinus and chest infections with coughs, flu, and stubborn viruses.
Vitamin B12 Injections
“Vitamin B12 plays an important role in white blood cell production, and white blood cells are essential for proper immune system functioning,” says Stephanie Middleberg, RD, nutritionist at Middleberg Nutrition in New York City.
Vitamin B12 is found in everyday foods like fish and red meat, but can be harder to absorb as you age or if your gut health is less than stellar. We can give you a course of Vitamin B12 injections to supplement your natural intake. B12 injections boost the immune system all winter long, keeping you strong and healthy.
Bonus: Other benefits include improved sleep, energy & mood, which is sure to help you feel better, even when you are surrounded by people who are miserable with coughs, colds, and sniffles!
Colorado Restorative Acupuncture 