Disclosure: This post about flu recovery has been sponsored by Loblaw. As always, all opinions are my own.
The holidays are fast approaching. Getting together with friends and family is one of the best parts of the season. Unfortunately, germs are often exchanged more freely than gifts. We talked about how to avoid getting the flu and how to keep your flu germs to yourself. So what do you do if you, even with all your efforts, you catch the flu? Flu recovery can feel like it will last forever but there are a few things you can do to make it less miserable.
Flu Recovery Tips
Drink plenty of fluids – Fluids help your body work more efficiently. Your body’s defences need to be able to move through your system and without fluids, that is impossible. Drink lots of tea, soup or water to keep your body working properly.
Caffeine and alcohol consumption is a no go – Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics. They cause your body to flush fluids out of your body. That may work against your efforts to stay hydrated. Try skipping your morning coffee or glass of beer/wine with dinner while you are recovering from the flu. It will help make it easier to stay hydrated.
Keep your nutrition on track – Getting the vitamins and minerals we need is crucial for flu recovery. Eating foods that are vitamin and mineral rich is the easiest (and tastiest) way to start. Vitamin C (sweet peppers, strawberries, oranges, etc.), zinc (fish, beef, beans, etc.) and Vitamin A (milk, eggs, carrots, etc.) all contribute to good immune and overall health. Plus, Real Canadian Superstore has Click and Collect so you can still eat without having to go shop. Just order online and go pick your groceries up.
Get your rest – The flu takes a lot out of you. Your body feels tired because all of your energy is going to fight off the flu. Getting plenty of rest will help with recovery. If you have tired and sore muscles, it’s your body’s way of telling you it’s a good idea to stay at home to rest up and curb the spread of illness.
Avoid the flu altogether – The flu shot is still your best way to avoid the flu, so stop in at your local Loblaws City Market or Real Canadian Superstore and get vaccinated today. You don’t even need an appointment! Just pop in and do the best thing you can do to avoid the flu.
My fingers are crossed that you will avoid the flu this year. Evan and I got our flu shots and so far, so good.
Flu Recovery Recipes
Here are some of my favourite recipes for when I’m feeling under the weather.
Mushroom Barley Soup in the Instant Pot – A yummy, broth-based soup that comes together quickly.
Easy Carrot Soup – Only five ingredients make this soup an easy recipe when you feel lousy and the carrots are a great source of Vitamin A.
Easy Thai Coconut Soup with Chicken – Spice from Thai curry, broth and lime juice come together in this soup that some call the get well soup. Yummy and soothing.
