7 Flu Prevention Tips for Fall

Disclosure: This post on Flu Prevention Tips has been sponsored by Loblaws. As always, all opinions are my own.

Fall is here and so is flu season. Every year it sneaks up on me and I forget that the flu is coming. This year I am going to be ready! Here are the things I use to help with flu prevention at our house.

Flu Prevention Tips

Flu Shot – Look, I get it. No one likes to get a shot but this one is so worth it. Your number one way to avoid the flu is to get your flu shot. Depending on how well the vaccine is matched to this year’s common viruses, 70-90 per cent of flu cases can be averted through vaccination. Thankfully, you can pop into the pharmacy at any of your local Real Canadian Superstore or Loblaws City Market to get a shot without an appointment!

Eat a healthy diet – I’m not talking major changes here (that can actually be a BAD idea because it puts your body into stress). Instead, head to the grocery store and use these guidelines:
- Eat the rainbow – That’s right…choose green leafy veggies, brightly colored peppers, orange carrots and sweet potatoes, red tomatoes and blue berries!
- Eat more Vitamin C – Citrus fruits are a yummy and easy way to get Vitamin C but so are bell peppers!
- Add beans and legumes to your diet – Not only are they a frugal choice, beans and legumes are packed with protein and zinc. Both are keys to a healthy flu-avoiding diet.
- Eat nuts and seeds – Vitamin E is an antioxidant which is key to a healthy diet and are found in nuts and seeds (plus they are SO YUMMY.) Just be careful to stay within serving sizes because it can be easy to go overboard.
- Add probiotics to your diet – Gut health is important at any time but it is also vital during flu season. Eating probiotic foods like kefir and yogurt is better than taking supplements.
- Make an appointment with one of the in-store dietitians at Loblaws City Market. You can also read my interview with a in-store dietitian last flu season.

Get moving – Head outside and take a walk or play your favourite sport. It’s also a great time to try out a new type of exercise you enjoy. Exercise keeps you healthy while keeping your brain healthy as well. On that note…
Reduce stress – I know, I know. Easier said than done. Try to avoid stressful situations and deal with stress in healthy ways. Consider trying meditation and practice self-care.
Get your rest – Sleep is the key to so many things. It reduces stress, helps your body fight infections and just makes life easier to live. Go to bed earlier and practice good sleep hygiene (develop habits which tell your body that it is time for sleep like reading).

Wash your hands – Good ol’ soap and water is vital to fight any germ. Make sure to wash your hands for 15 seconds or longer throughout the day.
Avoid people who are sick – I know avoiding people can feel crappy but it is really the best way. Oh and if you are sick…stay at home!