It’s almost flu season

I’ve had some nasty little flu all week. Technically, I don’t think it’s flu season yet, which makes me being sick seem slightly unfair.

Still, I’ve been freezing, tired, achy, and stuffed up, and I’m not the only one, so it would seem sick season, possibly flu season is upon us. Now is the time to prevent sickness. Once you catch something you can give it to your baby, and then your baby will likely give it back to you. It’s a maddening cycle. Being sick during cold and flu season is almost inevitable, but but there are some things you can do to limit your exposure, and stay healthier:

Only go to the doctors when absolutely necessary. Why? Well, the doctor clinic is not a place that healthy folks hang out. Unless you or your baby really need to visit, stay home, so you don’t catch something new. A better choice is to call a 24 hour nurse phone line.

Wash your hands. Wash your baby’s hands. Make sure that anyone holding your baby washes their hands too. Proper and frequent hand washing is a simple yet very effective way to limit illness in your house.

Consider a flu shot for everyone in the family. If your baby is older than six months he can have one (talk to your pediatrician about it). A new study shows that if you’re pregnant, and get a flu shot, your baby will receive immunity as well.

Breastfeed. Even if you’re sick, breastfeeding will help your baby to stay healthier than formula feeding.

Make sure your whole family gets plenty of rest, relaxation, and sleep - yup that means you too mama.

Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Healthy food is essential for strong bodies, and water helps to flush icky stuff out of your system.

Try some mood lifting essential oils for mamas - when you feel better emotionally, you’re less likely to get sick.

If you’re sick and your baby is perfectly healthy, it can be stressful. Read: how to relax and still entertain an active baby.

Keep your house clean. A house free of mold is a house where illness is less likely to develop. Ongoing mold exposure can reduce your family’s immunity to other illnesses.  You should clean your baby’s toys regularly, but you can use plain old hot water and soap or a homemade non-toxic cleaner; no need for heavy chemical cleaners.

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