Flu season is here. It is the time when influenza, along with other common illnesses, spreads like wildfire.
It affects everyone: the busy parent, the dedicated business owner, and even the most health-conscious individuals. To stay healthy year-round, boosting immune support is crucial. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to do this.
Prioritizing hydration is imperative in maintaining strong immunity and accelerating recovery once you become sick. Starting healthy hydration habits today will reduce your risk of catching the flu — or the severity of your symptoms if you get sick.
When is Flu Season, and the Importance of Hydration
Flu season generally starts around October and peaks between December and February. Colder temperatures and dry air are major contributors.
And, while there are many factors, researchers recently found an interesting link. Scientists taking a deep dive into what causes common viruses found a link between cold air and the immune response in the human nose, the main entry point for bacteria and viruses. Even a small drop in temperature influences nasal cells — the first line of defense against viruses like the flu.
While dropping temperatures are out of your control, there are steps you can take to support natural immune function. Hydration is a simple, powerful solution.
Hydration Matters for Immune Support
The variables that contribute to the flu are complex.
Viruses spread as people move indoors and gather throughout the flu season, but ample hydration remains pivotal for protecting yourself.
- Proper hydration ensures that immune cells are carried throughout the body. It also affects the transport of nutrients and the body's ability to absorb them.
- Hydration helps your body eliminate waste and toxins. This process reduces the burden on your immune system, allowing it to focus on fighting off infections.
- Water is key for many internal processes, from healthy cell signaling to supporting healthy temperature regulation.
Practical Hydration Tips Before and During Flu Season
Taking a proactive approach to flu season could help you avoid illness. Don't wait until you feel sick to start focusing on hydration. Begin incorporating good hydration habits well before flu season begins. The benefits of doing so are linked to more than flu prevention.
However, even if you take all the right steps, catching the flu may be inevitable for many. Once the flu strikes, hydration becomes imperative for recovery. The flu puts a lot of stress on your body. Giving yourself the right support can help you recover at this critical time, and water can act as your flu-fighting partner.
Here are some proactive and reactive tips.
Aim for Consistent Water Intake
Drinking enough water matters year-round. However, this lifestyle guide highlights that proper hydration isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. The golden rule prescribes 64 oz. of water daily, but this is a rough guide. Your activity level, size, age, and other variables affect what’s best for you.
Develop healthy drinking habits before flu season begins to ensure you get enough hydration. Make it easy to get the water you need daily. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle to remind yourself to drink regularly.
Track Your Hydration
Tracking your water intake will help you stay accountable. Download a hydration tracker app or print out a hydration log to monitor your daily water consumption.
- Waterllama is a popular iOS hydration tracker.
- For Android users, Waterly is growing in popularity.
Eat More Hydrating Foods
In addition to drinking water, include hydrating foods in your diet. Nutrient-dense foods like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and leafy greens will also support immune function.
Read more: Water for Wellness: Boost Hydration With These Water-Rich Foods
Make Hydration Convenient
Make water access convenient so that you drink more. A home water cooler is a great addition that increases convenience and improves water quality. A constant supply of filtered water can support healthier drinking habits, which is why it’s also beneficial in an office setting.
Brio filter systems and water coolers (bottled and bottleless) are excellent ways to ensure you have access to clean, purified water at all times. Drinking quality water without harmful contaminants will support your immune system and overall health.
Additional resources:
- Top Contaminants & Chemicals Found In US Tap Water
- Water Filtration Stages: Which Water Filter Removes The Most Contaminants?
Ample water intake is imperative, but it isn't enough to support your immune system during the flu season. Focus on a well-rounded approach to health. The importance of hydration can’t be understated, but proper nutrition, stress management, exercise, and sleep can also help fight the flu.
Prioritize Hydration This Flu Season and Beyond
Flu season can be challenging. However, prioritizing hydration can give your immune system the support it needs to fight illness. Staying hydrated helps maintain your body's natural defenses, giving you an advantage.
Start incorporating the abovementioned hydration tips today, and don't wait for the flu to strike. Whether sipping warm herbal tea or using Brio water products to provide clean, purified water, staying hydrated is an easy but powerful step to protect your health.
Make hydration a key part of our immune support plan this flu season. Use the Brio Solution Finder to get started today!
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