Recipe to help combat the effects of hypothyroidism

Did you know that despite its small size, the thyroid gland effects nearly every cell, tissue, and organ in the body? This is why a properly functioning thyroid is so important. Surprisingly, an estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, and yet, 60 percent are unaware that they have such a condition, according to the American Thyroid Association.

One major type of thyroid disease is hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid produces too little hormone. When this happens, you may experience such symptoms as muscle cramps, constipation, weight gain, fatigue, and memory loss. You may also experience hair loss, dry skin, cold intolerance, low libido, depression, and general weakness.

To combat hypothyroidism, Healthy Food House recommends making a home remedy tea. Simply boil 2 glasses of water. Add 1/4 teaspoon dry ginger, 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1 cup cranberry juice. Let the solution sit for 20 minutes. When you are ready to drink the tea, add 3/4 tablespoon orange juice and 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice. The tea has the added benefit of boosting both your metabolism and immune system and infusing your body with a host of vitamins.

According to Endocrine Web, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, as well as vitamin-D and omega-3 rich foods like salmon and olive oil can help ease hypothyroid symptoms. The best thing you can do for your body is to put good things into it. When you have hyperthyroidism, doing so with a little bit extra care can make the difference between a symptom-free day and one that hurts all over.

Did you try the tea? What did you think? Tell us and SHARE this article on social media!

Please note, natural remedies should not replace your physician-recommended treatment. Talk to your doctor before adopting any major changes to your diet or daily routine.

The truth about gluten and going gluten-free

The world has become so crazy about gluten, even Italy has adopted the gluten-free trend, reports The New York Times. If you've been wondering what's the deal with gluten? we're here to answer your questions and debunk the facts with science and statistics straight from the experts.

1. Do I have celiac disease? Probably not. Only 1 per cent of the U.S. population has celiac disease, reports Beyond Celiac. Celiac is a severe genetic auto-immune disease that causes antibodies in the blood to see gluten as a threat, explains the Celiac Disease Foundation. When gluten enters the system of a celiac patient, the lining of the small intestine is actually damaged. It's not just a matter of an upset stomach. Beyond constipation, bloating, and gas, symptoms can include bone or joint pain, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, missed menstrual periods, migraine, itchy skin rash, and canker sores inside the mouth. If you think you may have celiac disease, ask your doctor for a blood test

2. If I don't have celiac disease, do I have a gluten sensitivity? It's not likely. Gluten insensitivity is not nearly as serious as celiac disease. However, it is not as slight as an upset stomach either. People with a gluten sensitivity experience non-GI symptoms like headache, joint pain, numbness in the legs, arms, or fingers, and "foggy mind" for hours or even days after consuming gluten, says Beyond Celiac.

3. So why does my stomach hurt after eating bread or pasta?FODMOP. What? Clouded by the hype around gluten, FODMOP are short chain carbohydrates and sugar alcohols that are very often the underlying reason for many gastrointestinal problems that get misdiagnosed as gluten sensitivity. While gluten is in fact on the FODMOB list, you may be surprised to learn that foods at the top of the list to avoid are garlic and onions. For a full-list of FODMOP foods to avoid, refer to IBS Diets.

4. Wait a second, what is gluten anyway? Gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, explains Science Alert. It is the protein that gives bread its chewiness. You may be surprised to know that it is the basis of the popular vegetable meat substitute seitan.

5. But isn't gluten-free diet just healthier? No, a gluten-free diet can actually be dangerously unhealthy. Harvard Health Publications warns that avoiding fortified breads and cereals can set you up for a fiber deficiency, as well as a vitamin and mineral deficiency. Livestrong gives further evidence that might make you think twice before going gluten-free. The protein is low in fat and sodium, high in iron, and even contains calcium. This is why it is important to consult with your doctor before starting a gluten-free diet.

Natural remedies and treatments for corns, calluses and cracked heels

Are your feet your enemies? Do you suffer from painful corns and harsh calluses? No need to fret. The solution to smooth, soft feet is in your pantry.

WebMD explains there are several types of corns, most of which are found on the tops and sides of the feet. A hard corn is a small patch of thick, dead skin, while a soft corn has a thinner surface and is most commonly found between the fourth and fifth toes. You can also develop a tender seed corn on the bottom of the foot when the sweat ducts are plugged.

A callus is different from a corn in that it can develop anywhere that experiences friction, including on the chin of a violin player. On the feet however, calluses are most often found on the bottom of the foot.

To treat corns and calluses, follow these home remedies:

1. Castor oil and apple cider vinegar. Reader's Digest recommends making a foot bath of hot soapy water and 1 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak your feet for a minimum of 15 minutes. Use a pumice stone to rub away the callus and dab castor oil on the softened corn. Continue treatment for 10 days to heal the corn completely.

2. Lemon. You may be surprised to learn that applying a slice of lemon peel to the corn, securing it with a bandage, and sleeping with the lemon in place overnight can cure a corn. Reader's Digest says to continue treatment nightly until the corn dissolves.

3. Onion. Reader's Digest recommends placing a slice of white onion in a container and pouring white vinegar over the onion. Allow the onion to marinate during the day, and then at night, apply the vinegar-tainted onion to the corn. Sleep with the onion in place to soften the corn.

4. Bread. This one may come as a shock. Soaking half a slice of stale bread in apple cider vinegar and then securing the bread to the affected part of the food with adhesive tape can cause the corn to dissolve, saysReaders' Digest.

5. Baking soda and hot water. Heal Dove swears by the simple home remedy of soaking the feet in a tub of hot water treated with 3 tablespoons baking soda. You may also find it useful to massage the affected area with a paste made from three parts baking soda and one part water.

6. Pineapple. This miracle fruit contains enzymes known to soften corns and aid in their removal. Heal Dove recommends attaching a piece of pineapple rind to the affected area and leaving it to do its work overnight. The next day, use a pumice stone to rub away the corn.

7. Chamomile tea and Epsom salt. This nourishing, pleasant-smelling foot soak is effective in healing calluses and preventing corns, reports The Fit Indian. Simply add a handful of Epsom salts to a hot foot bath treated with chamomile tea. Soak the feet for at least 10 minutes and then use a pumice stone to soften calluses and remove corns.

8. Licorice and mustard oil. Raw licorice is a powerful agent against infections and other ailments. The Fit Indian recommends grounding 2 or 3 licorice sticks to a fine powder. Add 1/2 teaspoon mustard oil and apply the paste directly to the corn. Bandage the foot and let the healing lotion soak in overnight.

Which of these home remedies worked for you? Tell us your success stories when you SHARE this article on social media!

8 home remedies to bring down a fever

When your body experiences external (weather change) or internal (viral or bacterial infection) changes, it can respond with a fever. If your body temperature moves outside the healthy range of 98.4 and 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, here's what you can do to bring down a fever without pharmaceutical drugs.

1. Ginger tea. Spicy ginger induces sweating and treats inflammation. That's why Best Health Magazine Canada recommends drinking tea made from steeping 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger root in 1 cup boiled water.

2. Cayenne pepper. Like the spice in ginger, the potent heat in cayenne's active ingredient capsaicin promotes rapid blood circulation. To bring down a fever, Best Health Magazine Canada recommends sprinkling cayenne on your food.

3. Wet socks. It sounds gross, but this folk remedy really works. Best Health Magazine Canada recommends soaking your feet in hot water. As soon as you take your feet out, slip them into cotton soaks dampened by cold water. Pull dry wool socks over the wet socks and crawl into bed. This home remedy works because it draws the blood to the feet, increasing overall blood circulation.

4. Cold grapes. High in vitamin C, grapes cooled in the refrigerator can provide both cool relief and a boost to the immune system, says Best Health Magazine Canada.

5. Vinegar bath. Natural News recommends soaking in a lukewarm bath treated with 1/2 cup vinegar. Just 5- 10 minutes can dramatically reduce fever.

6. Vinegar potatoes. To use this home remedy, Natural News says to soak potato slices in vinegar for 10 minutes. Then simply relax lying down for 20 minutes with the potato slices on your forehead and a washcloth draped over the slices.

7. Bone broth. We've all heard chicken soup is the best cure for a cold. According to Mommy Potamus, bone broth is the best treatment for a fever. This is because the cartilage in bones supports healthy immune function, making it easier for the body to fight against infection.

8. Apple cider vinegar. The miracle cure-all also works for fever, says Mommy Potamus. Soak a washcloth in 1 part apple cider vinegar and 2 parts water and wrap the cloth on your forehead or stomach. This method will "draw out" the fever naturally.

E-medicine warns, however, if the fever is higher than 103° F, lasts longer than 7 days or continues to climb over time, please contact your doctor. There are also a few life threatening situations during which immediate emergency help should be sought. These include fever combined with any of the following: a stiff neck, blood in stool, difficulty breathing, confusion or high level of agitation.

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8 delicious smoothies to help flush excess waste from your colon

As the seasons change, your diet likely also changes. Sometimes, this can lead to a less than happy bowels, especially when winter welcomes heavier foods. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons explains a low-calorie, high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables is key to a healthy colon.

If you feel your bowels are in need of a boost to get things moving, you may want to try these tasty colon cleansing smoothie recipes.

1. Beets, avocado, strawberries, celery, lemon, coconut oil. This combination from Oh She Glows not only detoxes the colon and works as a diuretic, but also cleanses the liver, purifies the blood, and balances blood sugar. The ingredients contain anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties.

2. Papaya, spinach, kale, banana, apple, almond milk, chia seeds. The Green Forks uses this recipe in its detox program because in addition to supporting a healthy colon, it is anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory. The bananas improve sleep and mood, as well as cholesterol and blood pressure, while the greens contain calcium, iron, copper, fiber, and anti-oxidants.

3. Cucumber, strawberries, apple, spinach, lemon juice, almond butter, hemp seeds. This tasty combination from The Green Forks is full of nutrients that act as powerful detox agents. They lower cholesterol, heal inflammation, fight against cancer, and normalize blood sugar.

4. Green tea. Sipping green tea throughout the day can do wonders for the colon, says The Science of Eating. It works because it contains anti-oxidants that help remove toxins from the body.

5. Spinach, romaine lettuce, lemon, celery, banana, pear, apple.Celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Snyder says her trademarked "Glowing Green" smoothie contains more greens than the average person gets in a single week. Blending the greens not only helps you get more of them, they also aid in the body's full absorption of all the vegetables' nutrients.

6. Papaya, apple, pear, berries, orange slices, spinach, 1 oz. slivered almonds, 1 cup cooked oatmeal, 1 cup plain yogurt. This potent smoothie from Livestrong has all the ingredients necessary to get things moving! It is especially high in fiber and will do wonders for your colon and overall metabolism. 

7. Spinach, celery, cabbage, lime, brewed senna tea. This tasty smoothie from Haylie Pomroy contains an extra boost from senna tea, a laxative used to treat constipation and clear the bowels

8. Apple, sea salt, ginger, lemon. This refreshing, slightly spicy combination from Dr. Axe releases toxins by stimulating the colon. It is best to drink it warm, but not boiling, on an empty stomach in the morning.

How to ease cold symptoms in children without using cough syrup

In an interview with Huffington Post, one of the co-authors of the study that led to the AAP recommendation said, "People have this very false misconception about codeine, thinking that it’s safer than other opioids." The study found that codeine is not only dangerous because it is an addictive opioid, but also because it can cause life-threatening and fatal breathing reactions in children. According to AAP, a person under the age of 18 can die after taking just a single dose of cough syrup. You might think something so dangerous would only be available by prescription and only prescribed in the most dire of situations. But, in fact, codeine formula cough syrups are available over-the-counter in 28 states, according to Huffington Post. So what to do? WebMD recommends a number of drug-free remedies that effectively treat coughs and colds in babies and toddlers. The first step is to increase fluids. This is sage advice for people of all ages. Fluids can work a miracle because they thin mucus, making it easier to cough it up. At bed time, give children 1 year and older 1/2 tablespoon of honey. (Never give infants younger than 1 year honey.) Encourage your child to sleep with a few extra pillows under his or her head to help him or her breath better. You can create the same effect for babies by placing a small pillow or folded towel under the head of your baby's mattress in order to create a slight angle. Your child will likely also benefit from sleeping with a humidifier. Parents echoes WebMD's recommendations and adds a few more. Sleep is key to recharging a person's immune system at every age. However, children need much more sleep than you do. Babies require up to 18 hours of sleep a day; toddlers and preschoolers need 12 to 14 hours; and grade-school children demand 10 to 11 hours each night. Soup. It's not just good for the soul. Researchers at the Nebraska Medical Center conducted a study that suggested chicken noodle soup is anti-inflammatory and can actually help cure a cold. These home remedies really do work. Do the right thing. Before trying even just a drop of codeine-forumlated cough syrup, try these home remedies. And as always, if symptoms worsen or persist, talk to your child's pediatrician.

Few things are worse for a parent than seeing his or her child sick.

We know you, as a parent, want to do absolutely everything to make your child feel better. But before you reach for the cough syrup, it's important you know this: Codeine is not safe for children.

This blunt statement comes courtesy of American Association of Pediatrics(AAP). It is crucial parents understand codeine, a common ingredient in cough syrup, is an opioid. Yes, the same opioids that are the foundation of American's opioid epidemic that causes 78 deaths every single day, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

In an interview with Huffington Post, one of the co-authors of the study that led to the AAP recommendation said, "People have this very false misconception about codeine, thinking that it’s safer than other opioids." The study found that codeine is not only dangerous because it is an addictive opioid, but also because it can cause life-threatening and fatal breathing reactions in children. According to AAP, a person under the age of 18 can die after taking just a single dose of cough syrup. You might think something so dangerous would only be available by prescription and only prescribed in the most dire of situations. But, in fact, codeine formula cough syrups are available over-the-counter in 28 states, according to Huffington Post. So what to do? WebMD recommends a number of drug-free remedies that effectively treat coughs and colds in babies and toddlers. The first step is to increase fluids. This is sage advice for people of all ages. Fluids can work a miracle because they thin mucus, making it easier to cough it up. At bed time, give children 1 year and older 1/2 tablespoon of honey. (Never give infants younger than 1 year honey.) Encourage your child to sleep with a few extra pillows under his or her head to help him or her breath better. You can create the same effect for babies by placing a small pillow or folded towel under the head of your baby's mattress in order to create a slight angle. Your child will likely also benefit from sleeping with a humidifier. Parents echoes WebMD's recommendations and adds a few more. Sleep is key to recharging a person's immune system at every age. However, children need much more sleep than you do. Babies require up to 18 hours of sleep a day; toddlers and preschoolers need 12 to 14 hours; and grade-school children demand 10 to 11 hours each night. Soup. It's not just good for the soul. Researchers at the Nebraska Medical Center conducted a study that suggested chicken noodle soup is anti-inflammatory and can actually help cure a cold. These home remedies really do work. Do the right thing. Before trying even just a drop of codeine-forumlated cough syrup, try these home remedies. And as always, if symptoms worsen or persist, talk to your child's pediatrician.

In an interview with Huffington Post, one of the co-authors of the study that led to the AAP recommendation said, "People have this very false misconception about codeine, thinking that it’s safer than other opioids." The study found that codeine is not only dangerous because it is an addictive opioid, but also because it can cause life-threatening and fatal breathing reactions in children. According to AAP, a person under the age of 18 can die after taking just a single dose of cough syrup.

You might think something so dangerous would only be available by prescription and only prescribed in the most dire of situations. But, in fact, codeine formula cough syrups are available over-the-counter in 28 states, according to Huffington Post.

So what to do?

WebMD recommends a number of drug-free remedies that effectively treat coughs and colds in babies and toddlers.

The first step is to increase fluids. This is sage advice for people of all ages. Fluids can work a miracle because they thin mucus, making it easier to cough it up.

At bed time, give children 1 year and older 1/2 tablespoon of honey. (Never give infants younger than 1 year honey.) Encourage your child to sleep with a few extra pillows under his or her head to help him or her breath better. You can create the same effect for babies by placing a small pillow or folded towel under the head of your baby's mattress in order to create a slight angle. Your child will likely also benefit from sleeping with a humidifier.

Parents echoes WebMD's recommendations and adds a few more.

Sleep is key to recharging a person's immune system at every age. However, children need much more sleep than you do. Babies require up to 18 hours of sleep a day; toddlers and preschoolers need 12 to 14 hours; and grade-school children demand 10 to 11 hours each night.

Soup. It's not just good for the soul. Researchers at the Nebraska Medical Center conducted a study that suggested chicken noodle soup is anti-inflammatory and can actually help cure a cold.

These home remedies really do work. Do the right thing. Before trying even just a drop of codeine-forumlated cough syrup, try these home remedies. And as always, if symptoms worsen or persist, talk to your child's pediatrician.

Effects of apple cider vinegar on skin

Problematic skin issues such as eczema, acne and age spots are a cause for concern for many people. Skin irritants and unsightly blemishes can benefit from treatment, but there usually is not a one-size-fits-all approach. In fact, many individuals who suffer from skin issues tend to find themselves sampling several creams and ointments that sometimes irritate the skin further. This leads to the question, is there a more natural approach to treating skin problems?

What is apple cider vinegar?
People are probably most familiar with apple cider vinegar as a cooking ingredient, but it's time to think outside the box. According to Women’s Health, apple cider vinegar is where it’s at as far as skin health is concerned. The pH properties, natural alpha-hydroxy acids and acetic acid allow this vinegar to work as a soothing and repairing agent for the skin

Why use apple cider vinegar on skin? 
Apple cider vinegar has gained a reputation as an excellent source for skin management issues that range from moderately dry skin to more severe issues such as psoriasis. Women’s Health describes the vinegar as having a pH level that is very similar to human skin. Such similarity is what allows the vinegar to soothe dry and itchy skin. Additionally, the natural acids purportedly minimize pores and tighten skin, thus acting as a natural skin toner.

4 common ways to use apple cider vinegar home remedy treatments
According to New Health Advisor, some applications for apple cider vinegar include:

Age Spots
The alpha-hydroxy acids that naturally exist in apple cider vinegar can help gently remove dead skin cells. Over time, regular use could help reduce the sign of age spots on the skin.
Application: Apply straight apple cider vinegar (get here) directly to the age spots. Use a cotton ball or soft pad to blot the impacted area of skin. Let set for 30 minutes. Repeat twice per day for up to six weeks for best results. 

Acne
The malic acid found in apple cider vinegar makes it a terrific facial cleanser. Not only does it naturally soothe skin, but it also works as an antifungal and antibacterial cleaning agent.
Application: Use a small amount of apple cider vinegar (get here) as a rinse on the skin. Creating a mixture is not necessary. However, you should thoroughly rinse with water. 

Skin Toner
The astringent properties in apple cider vinegar can help minimize pores and improve circulation of the skin, thus making it an excellent natural solution for skin toner.
Application: Mix ½ cup of water and ½ cup of apple cider vinegar (get here) with a few drops of lavender oil (get here). Apply directly to the skin with a cotton ball (get here), allowing the mixture to set on skin for two minutes. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Repeat up to twice per day. 

Soothe Sunburn
Sunburns can burn and itch, making for an uncomfortable and slow healing process. Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent, meaning that it can help speed up recovery while reducing itching and burning.
Application: Mix equal parts of cool water and apple cider vinegar (get here). Apply directly to the skin by gently rubbing on burned skin. Repeat several times per day as needed for soothing.

Other considerations
While incorporating apple cider vinegar in a skin-care regime can prove beneficial, the results will not be overnight or foolproof. According to a recently published article in Healthline, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Some skin issues are severe and require a more rigorous treatment plan than mere vinegar. For example, in some scenarios, eczema can lead to an infection, which requires antibiotics for healing. 

• Apple cider vinegar can be a skin irritant and should not be used on open wounds. While it is a natural product, there is still the possibility of an allergic reaction. Signs of a reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling.

• Skin conditions could be made worse. On some occasions, apple cider vinegar can cause a burning sensation or inflamed skin. 

It is important to seek the advice of a medical professional before use or if any of the above issues occur. 

Here's what the latest research says about migraines and how it can help you today

And then a throb hits you on the left ide of the head so hard that your head bobs to the right...There's no way that came from inside your head, you think. That's no metaphysical crisis. God just punched you in the face.”

This description of a migraine headache by Andrew Levy in the book A Brain Wider Than the Sky: A Migraine Diary captures the dire agony of migraine. According to Mayo Clinic, migraine causes severe throbbing or pulsing pain, usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine is a terribly painful disease that according to the Migraine Research Foundation, affects an astounding 38 million Americans and 1 billion people worldwide. In fact, migraine is the third most prevalent and sixth most debilitating disease in the world

One of the most frustrating aspects of migraine is not knowing the definitive cause and therefore having no surefire cure. However, many migraine sufferers are aware of certain "triggers," many of which are related to diet. In fact, The Cleveland Clinic names caffeine and alcohol, in addition to aged cheese, deli meats that contain nitrates, pickled foods, freshly baked breads, onions, avocados, and even some fresh fruits, like ripe bananas, citrus fruits, papaya, and kiwi as common migraine triggers.

Why and how certain foods lead to migraines has long been a mystery. Until now.

The Guardian recently reported a new and exciting study published in the medical journal mSystems, which found migraine sufferers have higher levels of gut bacteria involved in processing nitrates. Researchers explain when nitrates are broken down by bacteria in the mouth and stomach, the chemical is converted into nitric oxide in the blood stream. When nitric oxide is used to intentionally dilate blood vessels, as in cardiac interventions, it is not uncommon for patients to experience excruciating headaches. Given this new study, researchers now suspect nitric oxide is a direct cause of migraine.

For migraine sufferers, this new research may be monumental. According to researchers, the study has inspired some scientists to imagine the possibility of developing "a magical probiotic mouthwash" that would balance the gut bacteria and thus prevent migraines. But in the meantime, victims of migraine can take measures to cut down their nitrate consumption.

An article on the website for celebrity fitness guru Jillian Michaelsidentifies processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, ham, and sausage, as well as root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower as among the foods with the highest concentration of nitrates

One of the most frustrating aspects of migraine is not knowing the definitive cause and therefore having no surefire cure. However, many migraine sufferers are aware of certain "triggers," many of which are related to diet. In fact, The Cleveland Clinic names caffeine and alcohol, in addition to aged cheese, deli meats that contain nitrates, pickled foods, freshly baked breads, onions, avocados, and even some fresh fruits, like ripe bananas, citrus fruits, papaya, and kiwi as common migraine triggers.

Why and how certain foods lead to migraines has long been a mystery. Until now.

The Guardian recently reported a new and exciting study published in the medical journal mSystems, which found migraine sufferers have higher levels of gut bacteria involved in processing nitrates. Researchers explain when nitrates are broken down by bacteria in the mouth and stomach, the chemical is converted into nitric oxide in the blood stream. When nitric oxide is used to intentionally dilate blood vessels, as in cardiac interventions, it is not uncommon for patients to experience excruciating headaches. Given this new study, researchers now suspect nitric oxide is a direct cause of migraine.

For migraine sufferers, this new research may be monumental. According to researchers, the study has inspired some scientists to imagine the possibility of developing "a magical probiotic mouthwash" that would balance the gut bacteria and thus prevent migraines. But in the meantime, victims of migraine can take measures to cut down their nitrate consumption.

An article on the website for celebrity fitness guru Jillian Michaelsidentifies processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, ham, and sausage, as well as root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower as among the foods with the highest concentration of nitrates

Prevent the flu with these home remedies

The flu is serious business. According to the Mayo Clinic News Network, up to 40,000 Americans die from flu annually. An additional 250,000 people are hospitalized. To protect yourself, it is important to receive the flu shot. In addition, there are a number of home remedies you can adopt to protect you and your family against not just the flu, but also a host of other ailments this winter.

1. Disinfect surfaces. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, explains disinfecting is the only way to kill germs. Cleaning and sanitizing only reduce the number of germs or remove them from a surface. It is recommended to use an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill germs on surfaces and objects that are touched often, such as doorknobs, computer keyboards, countertops, and phones.

2. Drink tea. Health.com recommends drinking tea all winter. This is because the steam stimulates the hairs in the noise that move germs out of the nose. Ear, nose, and throat specialist at Cedar-Sinai Hospital Dr. Murray Grossman recommends adding lemon to thin mucus and honey as an anti-bacterial.

3. Energy therapy. Julia Millspaugh, RN suggests a strategy she uses on her own patients to unblock energy and help the body fight infection. She told Health.com all it takes it putting the right hand on the top of the head and the left hand in between the eyebrows. With your hands in this position, take slow, cleansing breathes for a full 5 minutes. Millspaugh recommends starting every single day with this simple exercise for optimum health.

4. Eight hours sleep. Prevention reports a study by Carnegie Mellon that found people who sleep 8 hours a night are 30 per cent less likely than those who sleep just one hour less to get sick.

5. Vegetable juice. A nutritious diet is key to maintaining a high-functioning immune system. This is why paramedic Kristina Economou told Health.com her secret for staying healthy during flu season is starting each morning with a juice made from such nutritious vegetables as kale, broccoli, apple, arugula, parsley, cucumber, carrots, Swiss chard, lemon, and mint.

6. Meditate. A study by the University of Wisconsin found that daily meditation reduced a person's risk of illness by 40 to 50 per cent. ABC News explains this is because meditation reduces the immune system-weakening effects of stress.

7. Garlic. Eating garlic helps fight viruses, Dr. Richard Nahas, assistant professor of family medicine at University of Ottawa told ABC News. For best results, it is recommended to eat 2 cloves raw garlic daily.

8. Qigong. This ancient Chinese practice combines breathing control and slow movements to reduce stress and combat illness, reports ABC News. To learn a qigong exercise you can practice daily, watch the below video.

Which home remedies work for you? Tell us when you SHARE this article on social media!

The flu shot: What you need to know

As flu season approaches, you may be wondering whether or not you and your children should get flu shots. There are many myths about the flu shot that may have you concerned. We're here to tell you the facts. Plain and simple. Here are your questions answered by the experts.

1. Will the flu shot give me the flu? No. According to vaccine expert Dr. Gregory Poland in an article for Mayo Clinic, "It's impossible for [the flu shot] the "cause" flu." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further explain, the flu vaccine works by causing antibodies that protect against the flu virus (not the virus itself) to develop in the body.

2. But haven't people died from the flu shot? Rarely. Health Impact News lists just 42 claims filed in 2013 with the Department of Justice for injury or death due to flu vaccine. However, nearly 60 per cent of those who filed claims were afflicted with a severe paralytic disorder known as Gullian-Barré Syndrome, and are part of the small population which the CDC does not recommended get a flu shot. For the overwhelming majority of the population, the flu shot is safe.

3. So who should get the flu shot? The CDC recommends all persons over the age 6 months get a flu shot. The only people who should avoid the flu shot are infants under 6 months, individuals with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and people with life-threatening allergies to any ingredient in the vaccine, which includes gelatin and antibiotics. Otherwise, all people over the age of 6 months are recommended to get a flu shot.

6. Even pregnant women? Yes! Dr. Poland explains, "Today's flu vaccines are safe for expectant mothers and highly recommended." He goes on to discuss a recent study which demonstrated higher rates of death among pregnant women who were not vaccinated. The CDC echoes Dr. Poland's recommendation that pregnant women be vaccinated, citing a study which found babies whose mothers received flu shots when expecting where protected from flu as developing fetuses, as well as months after birth.

7. But what about children? Does flu shot cause autism? No way. The myth dates to 1998, when a British gastroenterologist published a study of 12 children linking the vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), to gastrointestinal problems he believed led to autism. Parents Magazine explains the 18 year-old study had nothing to do with the flu vaccine. Further, at least seven large-scale studies (much larger than 12 test subjects) published in major medical journals have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The bottom line is that no medical research supports the claim that vaccines cause autism. Research reported by the CDC does however, show that from 2010-2012, flu shots in children reduced pediatric intensive care unit admission for flu by an astounding 74 per cent.

8. Okay. But is the flu actually that serious? Yes. "No one should confused influenza with a 'minor illness,'" stresses Dr. Poland. "In an average year, up to 40,000 Americans die from influenza and its complications, and over 250,000 are hospitalized."

9. And what about side effects of the flu shot? Not bad. Often, patients suffer no side-effects. When side-effects do occur, they can include soreness, redness, or swelling at the site of injection as well as a low-grade fever and aches. However, the CDC stresses, "These side effects are mild and short-lasting, especially when compared to symptoms of bad case of flu."

10. Is there an optimal time to get a flu shot? Kind of. The CDCexplains, in the United States, flu season runs from October until May. Because the vaccine takes up to two weeks to take full effect, it is best to be vaccinated as soon as possible. However, as Dr. Poland says, "It's never too late to get a flu vaccine."

11. If I've had the flu shot before, I don't need it again this year, right? Not true! The CDC and NHS Choices both explain that because the strain of influenza changes every year, medical researchers and scientists work hard to formulate a new flu virus every year that specifically tackles the strains of flu virus predicted to circulate that particular year.

Now that you know the facts, you can make an informed decision. Spread the word by SHARING this article on social media.