As if the aches and pains from a new fitness regimen weren’t enough, enter flu season. Unlike a cold, the flu can keep people out of work for more than a week and even lead to hospitalization. Experts shared get well and stay well tips for fighting the flu.

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Get Vaccinated

Dr. Stacey Gorski, a biology professor who specializes in immunology and vaccinology at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, said that getting a flu shot is the best way to banish the flu. “Vaccinations should help contain the spread of the disease and keep people healthy…throughout the winter,” Dr. Gorski said. This year’s US influenza vaccine protects against up to four strains, including influenza A, influenza B and swine flu.

Pick the Right Foods

Magnesium-rich foods like salmon can ward off sickness image: elena_danileiko

Opt for fruits and veggies instead of chips and fast food. Choosing healthy foods boosts immunity and provides the body with vitamins and minerals necessary for maintaining a fit lifestyle. Rebecca Lewis, a registered dietitian at HelloFresh, recommended trying bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, salmon and sweet potatoes.

Wash Your Hands

As simple as it sounds, washing hands frequently with warm water and soap will help wash germs away, according to Dr. Christopher Calapai, a family medicine doctor in East Meadow. Dr. Calapai also suggested keeping home, work and personal spaces clean and disinfecting common surfaces to avoid the spread of germs and sickness.

Don’t Stress

According to Dr. Carolyn Dean, medical doctor and nutrition expert, “up to 90 percent of illness and disease is stress related.” She advised lowering high stress levels with magnesium, a mineral found to have immune strengthening properties. Try sipping a mix of magnesium citrate powder and water and opting for foods like spinach, yogurt and almonds.

Use Home Remedies

image: jimdphoto

Your mom was right, chicken soup really does work miracles. According to research published in Chest, a journal by the American College of Chest Physicians, chicken soup slows down white blood cell movement and acts as a mild anti-inflammatory. “The stream from the soup also helps open stuffed-up nasal passages and the salty broth can soothe a sore throat,” Dr. Ken Redcross, founder of Redcross Concierge in New York City, said.