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303.651.5111 LUHCARES.ORG
COLD AND FLU symptoms are very similar, but flu symptoms are
generally more intense than those of a cold. Fever is rare with a cold,
and congestion is rare with the flu.
Because colds and flu are viral rather than bacterial, antibiotics
won't help, but there are some things you can do to feel better sooner.
You're tired, achy, and you can't stop coughing. You know
you don't feel well, but you're not sure if it's a cold or the flu.
To find a Milestone Medical Group physician who can help with colds and the flu, call 303.485.3559.
Cold
OR
Flu?
IF IT'S THE FLU
Antiviral medications
can shorten the
duration of the flu.
They work best within
the first two days of
the illness, so see your
doctor at the first sign
of flu symptoms.
IF IT'S A COLD
To help reduce
cold symptoms,
try antihistamines,
decongestants, saline
nasal sprays, and
pain relievers, such
as acetaminophen
or ibuprofen.
WHAT HELPS
For both colds and the
flu, drink clear fluids such
as water and electrolyte
beverages to combat
dehydration. Chicken soup
is an anti-inflammatory that
can also relieve congestion.
Stay home and get as much
rest as possible.
PREVENTION
To avoid getting
sick, wash your
hands often with
soap and warm
water, get an
annual flu
vaccination, and
avoid contact with
those who are ill.
THE FORTIFIED FOOD trend has been making groceries
healthier for nearly 100 years, according to Project Healthy
Children. The concept began in the 1920s, when the United
States and Switzerland started adding iodine to salt to reduce
the risk of a certain thyroid disorder, and the number of fortified
foods has increased steadily during the last several decades.
Vitamin A is often added to margarine. Vitamin D gives milk
a boost, and nutrients such as iron and thiamin may be added
to the flour used to make foods such as bread and pasta. So
what does that mean for the rest of the daily diet?
VARIETY IS KEY
While processed foods that have been fortified are
often healthier than processed foods without nutrient
enhancements, any processed food may not contain as many
vitamins as foods in the natural state. Otherwise known as
whole foods, farm-to-table staples deliver the most nutrients
per serving.
So if you're looking to increase your protein intake, a breast
of chicken may be a better option than protein-fortified
whole-wheat pasta. While the amounts
of protein may be about the same, the
pasta—made from processed grains that
have been fortified—is probably high
in simple carbohydrates that your body
may not need.
The best plan of action? Eat a lot of
fresh fruits, veggies, fish, and meats, and
choose fortified foods when you're taking
the processed route. Multivitamins may
be a good idea if you are pregnant or
have special health needs. Talk
with your doctor about what
might be right for you.
Need a professional opinion
about nutrition? To schedule
an appointment with a
Milestone Medical Group
physician, call 303.485.3559.
