Tips to Avoid Being Caught by Man Flu this Winter

Man flu was coined by ladies everywhere to sarcastically mock men who actively exaggerate the symptoms of the common cold for extended sympathy and a wintertime nurse. However, recent studies have shown that man flu might in fact be more real than people think, causing men more pain than had previously been thought. If you’re a man, you probably didn’t feel like they needed a scientific test to tell you that. But real or not, how do you avoid contracting the dreaded sickness?

1. Eating pro-biotics

The human digestive system contains over 400 probiotics, which are bacteria or yeast that help to treat problems in the digestive tract, supporting and building the immune system. 70-80% of immune response occurs in the digestive tract, and studies have shown that foods that contain Bifidobacterium bifidum help to break down food and provide a protective coating for the intenstines from toxins and germs, while encouraging immune response. Fermented foods such as kimchi, sourdough, pickles and sauerkraut are great sources of Bifidobacterium bifidum, as well as natural yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, tempeh, and miso soup.  

2. Exercise

The lymphatic system is one of the major protectors against cold and flu, as it transports lymph around the body. Lymph is a healing fluid made from white blood cells, which help to fight off infection. However, the lymphatic system works at its best when the body is moving. It is advised to partake in at least 30 minutes of exercise every day to help ‘get the juices flowing’.  

3. Get your vitamins

A healthy immune system needs a whole host of vitamins to fight illness. For example, Vitamin B6 is extremely important in assisting with healthy biochemical reactions in the immune system while vitamins A, C and E are excellent antioxidants, armed ready to fight off infection. Vitamin D3 is also great for helping to prevent and fight off respiratory infections. While all these essential vitamins can be found in food, it is often difficult to eat enough of these foods, especially out of season, to give the immune system the boost it needs. Therefore taking vitamin supplements such as, Ultimate Man Once a Day, ensures you manage to take in the whole plethora of vitamins needed to pump up those white blood cells and prevent the wave of man flu.  

4. Sleep

This is the advice every man likes to hear: sleep more. Studies show that people who get less than 7 hours of sleep a night are more likely to contract infections and illnesses as the immune system is weakened. Getting an early night will help the body repair itself. If you struggle to sleep, try using sleep aids such as lavender pouches or drinking chamomile tea before bed.   Don’t fall victim to man flu this season. Fill yourself up with vitamins and sleep, get your head down for frequent naps, and intersperse your hibernation with a little breathless blood flow. Take care of yourself this winter to avoid being laid up on the couch with a handkerchief stuffed up your nose!