By Stephanie Allen, ASIN, DCN, DSS, CPES

Cold and flu are both contagious and both viral based, but symptoms and severity can be quite different. The common cold has a shorter life span and is generally milder than the flu. Some symptoms are common to both, and these can include sore throat, congestion, and cough. However, the flu can hit more quickly and usually will induce fever and chills. To be completely sure of which, sometimes may require testing.

While the CDC recommends an annual vaccination to protect against the flu, there are many additional practices that can help to reduce exposure, lessen symptoms, and shorten the duration of illness from both cold and flu. Social distancing is a great way to help protect from exposure, but this is not always practical. Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the face and mouth with bare hands and washing hands regularly can help prevent contracting and spreading any viruses.

Healthy lifestyle routines and good nutritional status can help prevent prolonged or serious illness from exposure to viruses. Some practices that can assist include good sleep hygiene, regular exercise, reducing stress responses, and adopting healthy dietary habits. There are also many nutrients that can aid in balancing the immune system for optimum performance during cold and flu season.

B vitamins are very important, especially B6 and B12 which can be found in meats, fish, turkey, and in beans. Look for lean cuts of meat or fish. For vegans and vegetarians, adding a high-quality B12 supplement is often recommended. Antioxidants such as glutathione are also important for optimum health this time of year. These can be found in foods such as kale, broccoli, and cabbage.

Bioflavonoids with powerful antioxidant properties such as those found in green tea, can increase B-Cell activity for higher antibody response and support the activity of T-cells as well. Epigallocatechin3-gallate (EGCg) is one of the most active agents in green tea and is responsible for much of these immune supporting activities. EGCg has also been noted for its ability to inhibit proliferation of influenza strains as well as other viruses.¹ Each 500 mg capsule of Wellness Works Green Tea-70 is standardized to contain 70% EGCg, the strongest available in an over-the-counter product.

Nutrients such as zinc, and vitamins D and C are known for their part in reducing the lifespan of the common cold or flu. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), quercetin and echinacea are also believed to stimulate and support the immune system. All of these are combined in Wellness Works Immune Daily Support.

For cold and flu season, the best practices include a well-rounded diet high in plant polyphenols and bioflavonoids and plenty of B, C and D vitamins. Other suggestions for prevention and resilience include regular hand washing, and getting plenty of sleep, water and exercise. When needed, Wellness Work can provide supplements for additional nutritional support to assist in optimal health and wellness during cold and flu season and year-round. Ask one of our team members about the many options we offer for cold and flu as well as immune balance and support.

1. Jae-MinSongKwang-HeeLeeBaik-LinSeongPersonEnvelope, et al. “Antiviral Effect of Catechins in Green Tea on Influenza Virus.” Antiviral Research, Elsevier, 9 Aug. 2005, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166354205001440.