Australia’s fluctuating climate can have you somwhere between winter and spring seasons, often in the span of the same day, and the effect can mean you’re suddenly under that metaphorical weather we were talking about. Getting sick and then passing on flu to the whole salon is not an option, but then again it’s also rarely an option to actually stay home.
As such, we recruited Bachelor/health guru Sam Wood to explain how to prevent the flu, how to treat it and how to manage it, to ensure the basins and the chairs of your salon are suitably illness free and everyone is back on the floor in no time. Read on…
INSTYLE: What are some tips you can give us to prevent the flu?
Sam Wood: The more we fuel our bodies properly with nutritious wholefoods the better we’ll feel. What we eat has a serious impact on our immunity, which is important to keep your energy levels up, especially now that we’re midst peak cold and flu season. A balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and healthy fats is essential.
Also, don’t be afraid to work out. Most people think that exercise will make them feel more tired, but it’s the opposite, it energises you.
INSTYLE: How do you treat flu symptoms once you are sick?
Sam: I’m a big believer that when you’re sick, you’ve got to listen to your body and manage symptoms as effectively as possible.
For me, Codral is always my go-to for treating cold and flu symptoms. I find it works best for me when I just want to get on with life but I’m feeling especially fluey and in desperate need of a good night’s sleep!
INSTYLE: Can you exercise when you have the flu? If so, what would you recommend to do and not to do?
Sam: It’s most important to listen to your body and rest. When it comes to exercising with a cold and flu, I follow the neck rule. If your symptoms are above the neck, sniffles, a blocked or runny nose, you’re okay to exercise. Swap your regular gym session for a low intensity workout such as a slow walk or jog for a burst of energy.
However, if your symptoms are below the neck, give your body much needed rest and don’t be afraid to talk to your pharmacist or health care professional about tackling the symptoms of cold and flu.
INSTYLE: What are some of your immune boosting recipes?
Sam: Check out Kung Flu Fighting Chicken Soup recipe here!
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