by Sam Smart

Created on: February 28, 2009   Last Updated: July 29, 2009

Unfortunately, there is still no evidence verifying that influenza (commonly known as the flu) can be prevented forever. No one is expected to enjoy getting this particular illness, and even a health-minded individual might experience it once or twice a year. Some of the best ways to avoid the flu include eating healthy foods on a daily basis and exercising regularly. And when a person catches a flu, it's time for that person to take proper medication, get extra bed rest, drink lots of fluids, and eat healthful foods.

Get Bed Rest

Some people may tolerate going out the door to go to work while being sick. But being laid low in a good bed for a couple of days can really help get rid of the flu symptoms involving a high fever, a runny nose, and stomach pains. Simply lie in a bed containing cool, clean sheets and pillows that are propped up for maximum comfort. Plan not to walk around the house very often, because that may aggravate your sick body. Avoid going outdoors when the weather is cold and damp. Just simply relax in bed. Read a book or watch television between naps if you wish.

Eat Healthy Foods

Especially for people with a "stomach" flu who temporarily lose their appetites, the best solution they can have is to eat foods that are jammed-packed with vitamins and are noted to be good for any flu. Fruits, vegetables, and hot soups with crackers containing little or no salt are good examples to help ease the flu. Eat a banana or a bowl of piping-hot chicken noodle soup along with some crackers. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, such as chocolate, because they can upset your stomach.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Make sure you drink lots of fluids. Water is best, but sipping on orange juice or any natural juices without additional sweetness is healthy, too. Sports drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade are fine, too, because they virtually have no sugar in them and contain electrolytes. A cup of hot tea is very soothing for the nasal congestion. Don't drink any sweet, carbonated beverages, such as a soda.

Bathe with Hot Water

Taking showers or baths with water hot enough to release vapor can help you get rid of the flu. The steams leaving the hot water have the ability to enter your nasal, reducing the fever considerably. Try bathing yourself in a bathtub with hot water and mild soap once a day. If you are too uncomfortable to do so, simply let the hot water run in a bathtub, and sit in a chair near the running water. You can at least inhale the steam.

Use Medication

Take the medication you need. Over-the-counter products such as Tylenol and Advil may be helpful for the flu, but tell your doctor first. You can also ask your doctor about choosing the right medicine to better suit your needs. Prohibit using medication that has expired.

If you simply sleep and rest a little more than usual, eat healthy foods, drink lots of water, and take medication, you will feel better in no time. Catching a flu isn't the greatest thing in the world for many people, so it is important that you take good care of your body at all times. Once you do so, you'll have a chance you won't get sick very often.

Sources

WebMD: 9 Ways to Treat Colds and Flu the 'Natural' Way

www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/9-tips-to-treat-colds-and -flu-the-natural-way

Gatorade or Water for the Flu?

www.freedrinkingwater.com/water_health/health1/1-gat orade-or-water-for-the-flu.htm

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