Travelling in SA or abroad is stressful enough, without having to worry about catching any nasty bugs on the plane, or once you land in your destination. How many work trips or family holidays have been ruined due to an unexpected illness? If you’re planning a trip – especially if it’s overseas – take a look at these quick and easy ways to boost your immune system before you leave. And, see what can help you stay healthy while you’re travelling.
ALSO SEE: Top 5 Natural Remedies to Beat Colds and Flu
Boost it before you leave
- Start taking Airmune at least two weeks before you depart
These effervescent tablets contain immune-boosting ingredients like Echinacea, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. The citrus flavour helps with taste, too. Available at Clicks and Dis-Chem stores nationwide, R179 for 30 tablets.
- Incorporate citrus into your daily diet
We normally look to vitamin C only after we’ve caught a cold, but eating foods rich in vitamin C every day is an easy way to regularly boost your immune system. And, don’t worry if fruits like oranges, grapefruit and clementines aren’t in season in the weeks leading up to your trip. There are many more vitamin C rich foods than we think – like broccoli, red pepper and ginger. And many delicious things to make using these ingredients…
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Keep your immune system in mind on the plane
- Invest in a good antibiotic ointment like Bactroban
And it’s not to be applied as you might think. Frequent travellers say you should use a small amount of the ointment and rub it on the inside of both nostrils just before you board a plane. It sounds odd, but it really helps to ward off bugs on the aircraft. You can reapply as needed throughout the flight. Available over the counter at most Dis-Chem stores.
- Keep hydrated
The second last and possibly easiest way to boost your immune system. Staying hydrated helps your body naturally get rid of toxins. Therefore, offering one last barrier to bugs. It might be inconvenient to keep getting up to use the loo if you’re on a long flight, but it will be worth it when you land feeling refreshed rather than fatigued. Whenever drinks are offered, ask for a bottle of water as well. And, try to stick to vitamin C-rich drinks like orange or tomato juice.
- Use your sanitising wipes
As an extra precaution, wipe down anything in your area before you take off – including arm rests, tray tables, remotes and headsets. Clean your hands before and after each meal. And, before you disembark, spare a thought for the next passenger by wiping surfaces down once again. Try the Dettol Hygiene Personal Care Wipes. Available at Clicks stores nationwide, from R13,55 for 10 wipes.
Happy travelling!
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By Features Editor Stephanie van der Plank
