{"id":5819,"date":"2023-09-12T00:04:14","date_gmt":"2023-09-12T00:04:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/?p=5819"},"modified":"2023-09-12T00:04:14","modified_gmt":"2023-09-12T00:04:14","slug":"letter-from-the-editor-how-to-weather-the-cold-and-flu-like-a-pro","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/?p=5819","title":{"rendered":"Letter from the Editor: How to Weather the Cold and Flu Like a Pro"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20370%20247'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" class=\"zeen-lazy-load-base zeen-lazy-load\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Letter_to_the_editor_cold_flu_survivor_guide3_Header_1296x728.jpg?w=1155&amp;h=1528\" alt=\"illustration of Healthline editor on a sick day drinking tea and reading book while bundled up in a blanket \"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Letter_to_the_editor_cold_flu_survivor_guide3_Header_1296x728.jpg?w=1155&amp;h=1528\" alt=\"illustration of Healthline editor on a sick day drinking tea and reading book while bundled up in a blanket \"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a kid, I used to relish getting sick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It usually meant skipping school and spending a day with my mom, who would lovingly make me chicken soup, rub my chest with Vicks Vaporub, and put a gentle hand on my feverish forehead every now and then while I watched my favorite cartoons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If I was losing fluids, I\u2019d get a bottle of Pedialyte sporting the familiar, cuddly-looking teddy bear. Mixed fruit was my favorite flavor \u2014 even to this day, the taste gives me warm and fuzzy feelings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In other words, sick days meant I got a lot of love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, they often bowl me over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A foggy brain, a stuffy nose, and a slightly raised temperature mean I\u2019m down for the count.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes I can barely even muster the energy and attention to watch TV. Instead, I hover somewhere between a state of groggy awareness and actual sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When my kiddo\u2019s involved, it\u2019s even worse. If we happen to be sick at the same time, just keeping us fed and hydrated is a feat in itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We usually end up living on rice, toast, oatmeal, and other one-pot, two-button food staples. Thanks, InstantPot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While nothing quite measures up to getting mom\u2019s unconditional, loving care, here are my tips for surviving the cold and flu \u2014 whether it\u2019s just you, your littles too, or the entire family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>When you feel it coming on<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You probably know the feeling of being just a little bit \u201coff.\u201d Maybe it\u2019s a tickle in the throat, a subtly aching head, or you feel like you need a nap by mid-morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whatever the signs are for you, they\u2019re an invitation to listen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Slow down<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Though it\u2019s usually not convenient, this is the time to heed the body\u2019s signals and start downshifting to give yourself the best chances of a speedy recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Slowing down can look different for everyone. For me, it means saying no to additional obligations, skipping hard workouts, and giving myself ample time to do&nbsp;<em>nothing<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Boost immunity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As I reduce my outgoing energy expenditures, I also put more good stuff in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I focus on upping&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/immune-boosting-supplements\">essential nutrients<\/a>, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>vitamin C<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>vitamin D<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>zinc<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>selenium<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plus, I reach for herbal blends that contain&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/astragalus\">astragalus<\/a>, elderberry, and Yin Chiao or Yin Qiao San, a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cold-and-flu\/cold-and-flu-season-remedies-from-traditional-chinese-medicine-doctors\">classic Chinese medicine formula<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Meal prep<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When I\u2019m just starting to feel a little icky, I do myself a big favor with some simple meal planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I focus on soupy, hearty options like&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/greatist.com\/eat\/oxtail-and-barley-soup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">oxtail stew<\/a>&nbsp;or jook \u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/greatist.com\/eat\/ginger-chicken-jook-rice-porridge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the rice porridge<\/a>&nbsp;I fell in love with in Thailand. Both can be frozen and stored for easy heat up later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also have some&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/bone-marrow\">bone broth<\/a>&nbsp;at the ready for sipping, whether store-bought or homemade. The extra nutrients and hydration can go a long way!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get stocked up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On top of cartons of broth, I grab canned soup and easy options for quick meals. Canned salmon, creamed spinach, microwave rice \u2014 whatever works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I make sure to have bread on hand for buttered toast. Nothing settles my upset tummy better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While I grab my food, I also make sure I have plenty of tissues, sanitizer, and any over-the-counter or herbal remedies I might need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>When you\u2019re in the thick of it<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If I stick to my sick-day preparedness plan, I\u2019m ready to take it when the ick hits me with full force.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rest, rest, and rest some more<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019m no longer doing stuff at this stage. It\u2019s usually a merry-go-round situation between the bed to the couch. I also try to sleep whenever my kiddo sleeps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That way, I\u2019m as energized and alert as I can possibly be when he needs me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If I\u2019m restless and can\u2019t sleep, I put on a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Lu762t1QtbU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">yoga nidra recording<\/a>&nbsp;to calm and relax my aching body and agitated mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Liquids and easy-to-digest foods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As mentioned before, I love my soups and stews. They require one pot, they\u2019re easy to store, and they can be frozen to get me through the entire cold or flu journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My little guy, on the other hand, loathes liquid foods of all stripes. Instead, he gets lots of buttered rice (with broth if I\u2019m sneaky enough), oatmeal, and easy-to-digest proteins, like eggs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also focus on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/electrolytes-drinks\">restoring lost electrolytes<\/a>&nbsp;with coconut water and soothing our tummies with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/benefits-ginger-tea\">ginger tea<\/a>. The kiddo will drink it if I add honey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tip:&nbsp;<\/strong>You can&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/fitness-exercise\/homemade-electrolyte-drink\">make your own electrolyte beverage<\/a>&nbsp;with a little sugar and salt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cold and heat therapy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the times I\u2019m grateful for my electric heating mat and microwaveable heating pads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/beauty-skin-care\/how-to-use-gua-sha\">Gua sha<\/a>&nbsp;can also be a helpful tool for headaches, puffiness, and moving lymph. You can pop your tool in the freezer for some cooling comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Soothing discomfort<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to a cough, stuffy nose, headache, or tight, congested chest, I\u2019m all about&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/essential-oils-for-cough\">essential oils<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Try one of these or a blend for relief:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>peppermint<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>eucalyptus<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>rosemary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>thyme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cinnamon<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>geranium<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oregano oil can be helpful too, but it\u2019s incredibly strong. Use extreme caution because it can even burn the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These oils are good options for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-sleep\/best-essential-oils-for-sleep\">supporting sleep and relaxation<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>bergamot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lavender<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>chamomile<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>vetiver<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ylang ylang<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I especially enjoy diffusing these through a humidifier if I\u2019m congested, and so does my kiddo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One upside of the whole fam being sick is you don\u2019t need to worry about spreading germs amongst each other. A good cuddle can do wonders for soothing aches, pains, and sick-day blues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn\u2019t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It\u2019s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils, and be sure to research the&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/greatist.com\/health\/best-essential-oils-how-to-buy-essential-oils\" target=\"_blank\">quality<\/a>&nbsp;of a brand\u2019s products. Always do a&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/greatist.com\/health\/patch-test\" target=\"_blank\">patch test<\/a>&nbsp;before trying a new essential oil.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Was this helpful?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>When you\u2019re on the mend<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\u2019t go full steam ahead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s easy to get over-excited when I start to get my energy back, but I almost always regret it if I spring full force into my regular tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead, I go back to stage one and treat myself the same way as if I was just feeling symptoms coming on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The rules still apply<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I still focus on fluids, underdoing, and taking naps \u2014 and not much else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Be patient \u2014 and kind<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can sometimes feel like a bug is lingering forever, and it\u2019s easy to get frustrated with myself and my body for the slow pace of healing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I remind myself that I\u2019ve given myself the best care I could, that my immune system is doing its job, and it\u2019s only a matter of time until I\u2019m back at it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a>Introducing Healthline\u2019s Cold &amp; Flu Season Survival Guide<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting sick can throw a wrench in your plans, but the right support can get you through it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To that end, Healthline has put together the Cold &amp; Flu Season Survival Guide. It covers everything you need to be prepared when sickness rears its head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve got questions about vaccines, what to eat to bolster your immune system, or how long you\u2019ll have to wait to recover, you\u2019ll find all the answers you\u2019re looking for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s just our way of looking out for you and yours as the cold and flu season strikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/letter-from-the-editor-keep-your-cool-with-the-cold-flu#Introducing-Healthlines-Cold-Flu-Season-Survival-Guide\">Source<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As a kid, I used to relish getting sick. It usually meant skipping school and spending a day with my mom, who would lovingly make me chicken soup, rub my chest with Vicks Vaporub, and put a gentle hand on my feverish forehead every now and then while I watched my favorite cartoons. If I was losing fluids, I\u2019d get a bottle of Pedialyte sporting the familiar, cuddly-looking teddy bear. Mixed fruit was my favorite flavor \u2014 even to this [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5819","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-conditions"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5819","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=5819"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5819\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5820,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5819\/revisions\/5820"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=5819"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=5819"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthnews.zone\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=5819"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}