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Diabetes - tips and advice to help protect against H1N1 swine flu
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Swine flu is affecting healthy adults as well as children, so for those of us with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, it is vital that we take preventative measures to ensure the safety of our health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Diabetes Program, having diabetes "can make the immune system more vulnerable to severe cases of the flu."
"Antiviral Medications: Persons traveling within the US that are at high risk of severe illness from influenza (for example persons with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, and the elderly) are recommended to take antiviral medications for prevention of swine influenza during travel. The recommended antiviral drugs for swine influenza are oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (brand name Relenza®). Both are prescription drugs that fight against swine flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. These drugs can prevent infection if taken as a preventative. Talk to your doctor about correct indications for using influenza antiviral medications. Always seek medical care if you are severely ill."
How can we better protect ourselves from getting sick? Well here are a few tips to help boost your immune system and fight off sickness:
- Vitamins! Immediately boost your Vitamin C levels with Emergen-C LITE, with only 1 gram of carbohydrate per packet and 1000mg of Vitamin C. Visit your local H.E.B., Target, pharmacy or order a free sample from Emergen-C now! It's always great to have a box ready-to-go in your cabinet when you need an antioxidant boost, so stock up! They also offer a range of flavors with 5-6 grams of carb per packet.
- Fruits & vegetables are nature's way of keeping you healthy and boosting your immune system, so grab a tote and head to the market for some yummy fresh produce! Make a delicious fruit salad for the whole family or store in air-tight containers to enjoy for the entire week. Chop up and mix together: kiwi, oranges, grapefruit, cantaloupe, strawberries, honeydew and blueberries for a delicious salad! Don't forget to load up on these
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vitamin-rich veggies: fresh raw spinach, broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower and sweet potatoes. Click here to look up official nutritional information from the USDA. For a list of local Houston farmers markets click here. - Exercise and drink plenty of water! Exercising for twenty minutes a day at least three days a week can help to strengthen your immune system. Sweating and drinking plenty of water can help to flush out toxins and combat infection. So grab your water bottle and get your workout on! Remember to always wash your hands and/or sanitize before and after using any public gym equipment.
- Keep your blood sugar under control. Pay extra attention to your blood sugar levels and test your blood sugar more frequently to maintain control. High blood sugars can severely affect your immune system's ability to function and protect you from disease and infection. Take charge and lower your risk by staying active, eliminating refined sugars from your diet, and keeping up with your glucose levels.
- Reduce your risk of exposure by avoiding public places and travel, washing your hands with anti-bacterial soap frequently, wearing a face mask, and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue whenever you sneeze. Always throw out your tissues after you use them. Try to avoid spreading germs by not touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
The symptoms of H1N1 (swine flu) are very similar to other flu symptoms including: fever, chills, body aches, headache, cough, sore throat and fatigue. Contact your doctor or diabetes specialist immediately if you are experiencing severe flu symptoms as it may affect your blood sugar control. Visit the CDC online for the latest H1N1 information. For the latest travel advisories and information click here.
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