Top 10 tips to avoid flu and colds this winter

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Winter season is closely linked to colds and flu. Dr William, medical consultant at the Meteorological Office's Health Forecast Unit said that infections become prevalent on Decembers. 

But here are some very practical ways that can minimize the risks of catching colds and flu.

1.   Wash the Hands

Daily Mail writes viruses are mostly transmitted by the "aerosol" effect. Sick people sneeze, breathe or cough and that releases germs in the air. But physical contact also helps the germs to transfer. Touching mouth, eyes or nose easily transfers germs to a healthy body. Washing hands frequently decreases the chances of spreading germs!

2.   Stay Warm

MSN News reports that staying warm by the means of warm clothes or sitting in the sun is more effective than sitting in heated rooms. Dr. Bird says, "Shivering depresses the immune system and this makes us more likely to catch colds."  Wearing hats is more essential than people think. 30% of the body heat is lost through the head.

3.   Watch the weather

Cloudy and dull weather has more tendencies to spread germs. Dr Bird says, "This is the time when you're more likely to catch something." Stay away from all sickening factors.

4.   Herbal help

Many herbs make wonderful tea for curing colds and flu. Echinacea is a renowned herb for fighting flu and colds. The use of the herb is common in the form of tablets. But after eight weeks it should be discontinued to keep up its efficacy.

5.   Drink plenty

Water is the best agent that cleans the body by flushing out the toxins. Rehydration expert Dr Susan Shirreffs says: 'Water helps the kidneys function properly and flushes out the toxins that accumulate in our bodies.' About eight glasses of water a day keeps the body at its normal functioning speed. 

6.   Zinc and garlic

Zinc helps fighting cold and flu by boosting the immune system. Garlic helps ease chest complaints. Taking a small amount daily reduces the chances of catching cold and flu.

7.   Sleep Soundly and also Maintain Good Mood

Dr. Bird says that enough sleep keeps the body comforted and lesser susceptible to infection attacks. Good mood also helps in fighting cold and flu. People with a happier mood and relaxed temper suffer lesser.

8.   Keep on moving

Keeping active is the key to good health. Regular activities in winter or some moderate exercise increases the amount of natural killer (NK) cells in the bodies.

9.   Avoid Heating and Huddling

Crowds in public places or transports are the most places to stay away from. The huge number of people transfers germs to one another easily. Stay away from crowds and close public places.

Central heating attacks the respiratory system and also reduces a body's immunity. Avoid  staying for a long time in a closed heated environment.

10.   Take vitamins and probiotics

During winter, taking a daily dose of vitamins can save people from colds and flu. Friendly bacteria in probiotics help a body to stay healthy and have good defense system!