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Sunday, July 12, 2009

Preventing colds while flying


Air travel is the perfect storm for catching a virus. Blankets and pillows that are placed in the seats of airplanes sometimes have not been sanitized for each flight. Cabin pressure exaggerates stomach issues and viruses. Blood takes in lesser oxygen and gasses in the body tend to expand due to cabin pressure and altitude.
Here are tips to stay healthy during a flight:
Drink plenty of liquids. Before departure, drink eight to twelve ounces of pure, filtered water. It is easy to drink and drive – that is, drink the water on the way to the airport. Sip four to eight ounces per hour during the flight. A sip seems like nothing at all, but constantly hydrating the body is better than the shock of drowning yourself with twenty ounces later. Sugary carbonated beverages along with a heavy meal will give a bloated feeling. Gasses expand in the body with elevation and cabin pressure changes.
Pack medications and supplements in a bag that can be carried onto the plane. Have it accessible just in case it is impossible to get out of the seat. If taking medication, it is a good idea to carry a medical history with the name each of the drugs plus the dosage being taken. Carrying an empty bottle to refill with water is also a good idea. Once on the aircraft, fill the bottle and also have it accessible at all times.
Supplements are essential for travel. Powdered vitamins that can be added to water are perfect, especially if they contain 1000 mg. of vitamin C. Many flyers swear by Airborne, a dissolving tablet containing vitamin C, Echinacea and other herbs to stave off colds and flu bugs. Rescue Remedy by Bach Flowers is an essence to calm nerves before and during the flight. Sovereign Silver nasal spray is great because it wards off bacteria. Silver has been used for centuries as a disinfectant and was used before antibiotics came around. Usually taken under the tongue or with water, dosage can vary. If taking other medications, it is probably best to check with the family physician before taking colloidal silver. An acidophilus capsule keeps the immune system strong by keeping the good bacteria in the gut, especially while traveling. They now come in a capsule that does not need refrigeration so it is simple to carry in the purse or bag. 80 percent of all diseases begin in the gut so it is important to keep the gut healthy.
Packing a bag of healthy snacks is probably one of best things to do while away. Good protein like almond butter or hummus along with vegetables and quality fruit pack easily and keep the blood sugar stable. Nuts and seeds are perfect and a good quality chocolate satisfies the sweet tooth.
Stretch the morning or day of the trip. It helps circulate the blood and keeps the body limber throughout the flight.
Smile and enjoy your trip. Keeping a positive attitude will keep the body relaxed and arrival at the destination will seem effortless!