Description of the blog
Colds, Flu and the Immune System
It is here again — cold and flu season.
There’s always some confusion between having a cold or the flu. Both are contagious and 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, including sore throat, congestion and cough. However, the flu can hit more quickly and usually will induce fever and chills. To be completely sure, testing may be required.
The common cold is an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus and is more common during the winter months. According to the American Lung Association, more than 200 different viruses can cause the common cold. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, the rhinovirus is most often the one that makes people sneeze and sniffle. It’s highly contagious.
Colds spread when someone who’s sick sneezes or coughs, sending virus-filled droplets flying through the air. It can be spread by touching a surface (such as a countertop or doorknob) that was recently handled by an infected person and then touching the nose, mouth or eyes. The cold virus is most contagious in the first two to four days after exposure.
The flu (influenza) is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's different from the stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.
The body faces its greatest immune system challenge during cold and flu season, or when it is subjected to other viral infections. 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. However, even with the best of lifestyles, the immune system can be challenged. Balanced nutrition as well as certain herbs and some dietary supplements may help to stimulate natural immune function.
Immune Daily Support is a formulation of nutrients (vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, NAC, quercetin and echinacea). These nutrients have been found to be essential for a healthy immune system but may be functionally deficient in many individuals.
Green Tea-70 High Concentration EGCg is a water-soluble antioxidant that is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times stronger than vitamin E as a dietary supplement to support proper immune system function.
To explore more of our nutritional products that support a healthy, active lifestyle, reach out to our Wellness Works team today at info@wellnessworks.com.
References
† Products and product information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.