How to fully recover after a cold or the flu
Once your sniffles and sneezes are gone, you may expect to feel back to your old self again. Sometimes, though, it may take a few weeks before you fully rebound from being sick. You may feel lingering fatigue after your illness, so we have some tips to regain your energy after being sick.
1. Restore nutrients
You may not have had much of an appetite when you were sick, but now that you’re feeling better, restoring your body’s nutrients can help rebuild your strength. Choose complex carbohydrates (like oatmeal), lean proteins (egg or chicken), foods high in fiber (like beans), and foods that contain omega-3s (like fatty fish).
2. Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water helps you stay hydrated. In addition to water, make sure you eat lots of fruits and vegetables to maintain your energy levels and keep electrolyte levels balanced.
3. Ease back into your workout routine
Exercise is a natural way to boost energy. It gets oxygen-rich blood circulating throughout your body. Even though you may not be feeling up to it, try moving your body, even if it’s just for 10 minutes every day.
4. Carve out time to rest and relax
Recovering from an illness takes time. If you’re struggling to bounce back, avoid doing too much and just relax. There’s no shame in taking a few extra days to recuperate.
5. Get enough sleep
Experts agree you should get at least seven hours of sleep to boost your energy levels and support your body. To restore our energy to pre-illness levels, set aside at least seven hours per night for sleep.
6. Practice yoga or meditation
People usually turn to yoga and meditation when looking for a way to relax, but they can also help you restore your energy levels.
7. Take a break from alcohol
Alcohol acts as a sedative. If you’re already tired, it will further exhaust you. Despite that drowsy feeling, drinking can cause sleep disruptions.
8. Limit your sugar intake
If you’re still not fully recovered from being sick, eating extra sugar may make you feel even more tired. Stick with fruit for now until your body can handle the occasional sugary treat with more energy.
9. Get some sun
Sunlight boosts serotonin levels in the brain and gives you more energy. It can also help you focus and stay calm. If you want to spend more time outside, check with your doctor and always make sure you apply high-quality sunscreen.
10. Ask for help
If you still aren’t feeling well after being sick, there’s no harm in asking for help. To recover properly, you may need some extra support. Asking a friend to watch your kids or having your partner cook dinner are a few simple ways the people around you can help.
By Gina Kelly
