When I was a kid, I was always getting sick. I had strep throat at least three times a year, was on a first-name basis with the school nurse, and even caught scarlet fever once—I thought that was only in history books! Some of my worst childhood memories involve cotton swabs being pushed down my throat at the doctor’s office and trying not to gag on cough syrup while my mom insisted I swallow it. Not fun! Luckily, my immune system has toughened up since then, and I honestly can’t remember the last time I had to see a doctor for being sick. I wouldn’t say I’m the epitome of health, but I’ve gotten really good at stopping sickness in its tracks. I can sense when I’m about to get sick and have a firm routine to nip it in the bud. Here’s how I do it:
**How to Not Get Sick: 5 Tricks for Staying Healthy During Flu Season**
1. **Oil of Oregano**: This is like a super-concentrated version of the herb you find on pizza. It’s amazing for fighting off illness because it has strong anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, plus antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds. You can take it as a liquid or in capsules. I like the liquid drops because I find them more effective, but if the taste is too much for you, capsules might be your thing. I take three drops under my tongue three times a day if I feel like I’m getting sick, always followed by a tasty drink.
2. **Urban Remedy Cold Crusher**: The last time I felt a cold coming on, a friend recommended Urban Remedy’s Cold Crusher juice. I got some from Whole Foods—it’s a mix of carrot juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and turmeric, packed with vitamin C and beta carotene. I felt better almost instantly, and after the second bottle, I was back in action. You can literally feel healthier as you drink it, and it tastes great too. You can even make this juice at home.
3. **Source Naturals Wellness Formula**: I take this daily for wellness, but it’s especially handy when you’re feeling sick. If you start feeling under the weather, take three of these, and you’ll be amazed. My friend Zack got sick recently, but after taking three of these pills for two days straight, he was back to normal. The formula is loaded with great ingredients like vitamin C, A, and D, beta-carotene, grapeseed, zinc, copper, adaptogens, echinacea, elderberry, and more. It’s a powerhouse vitamin that everyone should take.
4. **Apple Cider Vinegar**: If you’re feeling off, take a shot of apple cider vinegar (ACV) or mix it with water first thing in the morning! ACV helps to alkalize your body, which fights bacteria and viruses. I’m used to taking it as a shot, but since the taste is strong, you can take ACV capsules instead.
5. **Boiron Oscillococcinum**: My mom always had this on hand when we were sick, and it’s still the ultimate go-to for the flu or any illness. It comes in a small vial full of sugar-like pellets. You let them dissolve under your tongue and repeat every six hours until you feel better. It’s a homeopathic approach, and while it’s hard to explain exactly what’s in it, I swear it works.
That’s my list. Do you have any amazing tricks for staying healthy during the flu season? Let us know!