Summer is a time to relax, enjoy the sunshine, and spend time with loved ones. But all that extra warmth doesnât mean you canât get sick anymore! Though most people associate colds and flu with the winter, illnesses like the summer flu are still surprisingly common even when temperatures rise.
Luckily, a few easy habits and healthy choices can keep your body strong all summer long. Whether youâre looking forward to that big beach trip or a family reunion, hereâs how you can avoid summertime sickness as much as possible this summer.
What is the Summer Flu?
Letâs clear up a common question: What exactly is the summer flu?
The term âsummer fluâ is usually used to refer to viral illnesses that show up during the summer. This can include enteroviruses and other non-influenza bugs that mimic traditional flu symptoms like fever, sore throat, headaches, and body aches.
Though the actual flu virus is more active in the winter, summer flu symptoms can be just as uncomfortable and disruptive. Taking steps to protect your health in the summer is just as important as those you take in the winter!
Stay Hydrated All Summer Long
One of the easiest ways to avoid getting sick in the summer is to make sure you drink enough water. Dehydration can make you feel tired, lower your energy levels, and weaken your immune system. This can result in viruses like the summer flu infecting your system more easily.
Consider these tips to stay hydrated in the heat:
- Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere you go
- Add lemon, cucumber, or berries to your water for flavor and extra nutrients
- Drink extra fluids when you sweat a lot, especially during outdoor activities
- Keep an eye out for dehydration signs like dry mouth, dark urine, and headaches
Staying hydrated allows your body to flush out toxins, regulate temperature, and keep your immune system running smoothly. Without enough hydration, you leave your body susceptible to illness all year long.
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Yes, you need to prioritize sleep even during vacation! Though it can be easy to forgo sleep due to late nights, travel, and special summer events, itâs important to catch up on rest during your vacation too.
Your body repairs itself while you sleep, so a lack of it can result in longer illnesses and a weakened immune system. If youâre getting less than 7-8 hours of sleep per night, your risk of catching the summer flu increases.
Make sure you stick to a consistent bedtime, even on weekends, to keep your energy up. If you have trouble sleeping long enough in the morning, consider getting blackout curtains to keep the room dark and a fan to keep you cool even as the sun rises. You should also avoid caffeine and heavy meals late in the evening, which could keep you up.
Remember, sleep isnât just about energy: itâs also one of your first lines of defense against illness.
Avoid Summer Flu With Summer Hygiene
Warm weather means going out more, especially to crowded places like amusement parks, airports, festivals, and restaurants. Crowded places are also full of germs, so good hygiene habits are extra important during the summer months. Make sure you:
- Wash your hands regularly with warm water and antibacterial soap
- Use hand sanitizer in between hand washes
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces like cell phones, doorknobs, steering wheels, and sunglasses
- Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes
Summer flu viruses spread easily through hand-to-mouth contact or shared surfaces, so keeping your hands clean can go a long way in staying healthy!
Eat Immune-Friendly Foods
Your immune system needs proper nutrition to function at its best. Eating a balanced, colorful diet can help your body fight off illness and recover more quickly when you do get sick.
Some summer-friendly foods that boost your immune system include:
- Berries and citrus (vitamin C)
- Leafy greens (fiber and antioxidants)
- Yogurt and other fermented foods (probiotics)
- Lean meats like chicken and fish (protein)
- Nuts and seeds (zinc and healthy fats)
Try a morning smoothie with spinach, berries, and Greek yogurt for a cooling and immune-supporting start to your day, or pack fresh fruit and veggies when youâre out for a family picnic.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Thereâs no doubt that enjoying the great outdoors can improve your health, too! Sunshine helps your body produce vitamin D, which supports your mood and immune system.
However, you should keep a good balance between indoor and outdoor time. Too much sun can cause overheating, sunburn, and exhaustion, stressing your immune system and making you more susceptible to illness.
For safe summer fun, consider spending most of your outdoor time earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the hottest time of day. You should also wear wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen to protect your skin against harsh UV rays.
Remember to always take breaks inside and to sip water often to avoid dehydration. If you begin feeling dizzy or nauseous, rest in a cool space immediately. Fresh air and light movement are great for your body, but maintaining balance is key to good health.
Fight Summer Flu With Supplements
Even with the best diet, your system sometimes needs a little extra support. Supplements like certain vitamins and herbs are great at supporting your immune system and helping you fight off viruses, including those that cause the summer flu. Consider taking these to support your system:
- Vitamin C: For skin health and immune support.
- Zinc: For stronger immunity.
- Elderberry: For antiviral and antioxidant properties.
- Probiotics: For gut health.
- Ivermectin: For overall health when used under medical supervision with a valid prescription.
Of course, always talk to your physician before starting any new supplements. Your doctor will be able to help you determine if certain supplements are right for you based on your health and needs.
Final Thoughts: Focus on Fun and Health
Summer should be about fun and adventure, not fever and fatigue. Avoid the summer flu by staying hydrated, eating well, resting often, and taking supplements as needed.
If you need help along the way, All Family Pharma is here to support your wellness journey with trusted supplements and guidance from licensed physicians. Shop our stock today and use code AFP10 at checkout to find the supplements you need to avoid the summer flu this year.Â
