Today, The Fruitful Life Blog is joined by Genexa homeopathy, for the best ways to stay healthy during cold and flu season. Thanks Genexa, and a healthy flu season to all of our readers!

A drop in temperature is a strong indicator that cold season is right around the corner. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults have an average of 2-3 colds per year, and children have even more. Exposure to cold weather, a weakened immune system and coming in contact with someone who has the virus are common ways to catch a cold. But there are ways to prevent, shorten and treat those nasty symptoms, which can linger for two weeks or more!

Address the Stress!

Fatigue and stress are major culprits for weakened immune systems, according to Dr. Amy Shah, Genexa Medical Advisor. Chronic stress can actually suppress your immune system by keeping your hormone levels elevated. Long-term chronic stress can increase your risk for disease. Stress also contributes to fatigue, making it difficult to sleep. All of these factors increase your susceptibility to catching a cold. When you feel a cold coming on, make sleep a priority! A well-rested body is more equipped to fight off the cold virus.

Stock up on Immune-Boosting Foods

Some of our favorites include:

• Vitamin C-packed foods like peppers and citrus fruits

• Green tea, which is high in antioxidants

• Protein-rich nuts like almonds

• Blueberries, which contain flavonoids – a type of antioxidant that can help reduce damage to cells and boost your immune system.

• You can also strengthen your gut to support your overall immune system with a good probiotic. Adding fermented foods to your diet is another way to get this health boost.

Breathe Fresher Air

Improve circulation in your home, office or personal space by opening the windows. The air inside closed spaces recirculates, much like an airplane, making it easy for viruses and bacteria to thrive. Open the windows or take yourself outside to reduce your exposure to the germs. Indoor plants are also a great way to promote clean air inside year-round!

Take a Remedy

Ease your symptoms with a cleaner cold remedy, like Genexa® Cold Crush, an organic and non-GMO remedy formulated to address common cold symptoms. Cold Crush is free of the artificial fillers and binders found in most cold and cough medicines so you get all the medicinal benefits without any of the added junk. The açaí berry flavored chewable tablets are easy to take on-the-go. Cold Crush is the only USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified cold medicine, and is also Certified Vegan and Certified Gluten-Free.

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Generally, common cold symptoms come on gradually and can last anywhere from 8 to more than 14 days. Flu symptoms, on the other hand, come on suddenly and are more severe than cold symptoms. High fevers are common, often over 100° F, and symptoms include chills, dry cough, headache, severe muscle aches, extreme fatigue and weakness.

Experts recommend getting plenty of rest and staying home 24 hours after the last symptom. Over-the-counter medicines can help reduce symptoms, including multi-symptom remedies like Genexa® Flu Fix, an organic and non-GMO solution that helps address symptoms of the flu including headache, body aches, fever and more. If your symptoms last longer than 48 hours, see your healthcare professional.

What did you think of these tips? If we missed any surviving cold or flu season tips, let us know in the comments below. Plus, be sure to visit Fruitful Yield online or in-store for all the best Genexa homeopathy and more!