When it comes to summer, it is easier for us to have health-related problems due to its high temperature and humidity. We might feel dehydrated, fatigue or even experience heat stroke.
Hong Kong’s peak influenza season normally occurs between July and August. Our immune system will be weakened if we lack sleep, which leads to a higher chance of catching a flu. In particular, the elderly and children should always maintain healthy eating habits and lifestyles.
Influenza cough can be divided into three categories: common cold with wind-cold syndrome, common cold with dryness syndrome and common cold with wind-heat syndrome. We can boost our immunity and speed up recovery simply by eating various foods.
- People with symptoms like an itchy throat, white phlegm and runny nose, have a common cold with wind-cold syndrome. This group of patients is suggested to eat more ginger, garlic, parsley and other cold-dispelling foods.
- People suffering from a sore throat with bloodshot sputum, and coughing, have a common cold with dryness syndrome. By eating figs, honey and lilies, their throat can be moistened and coughing be alleviated.
- People with a sore throat, fever, and headache, are affected by a common cold with wind-heat syndrome. Monk fruit, chrysanthemum and pear are ideal eatables to clear phlegm and relieve coughing.
To stay healthy during the summer, more attention should be given to body hydration, proper exercise, light diet, sun protection and heat stroke avoidance. If you feel unwell, you should seek timely medical attention.
Tips to strengthen your immune system:
- It is recommended to consume more vitamins, especially vitamins B1, B2, B3, C, D, E, β-carotene, zinc, and polyphenol foods, such as oranges, strawberries, red peppers, mushrooms, beef. These foods can help to enhance your immunity and cell reparability, which can reduce your chance of getting a cold or alleviate relevant illnesses symptoms.
- Staying hydrated is also crucial, especially if you have a cold or flu because it helps moisten our mucous membranes and strengthen our body's defenses against bacteria and viruses. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Also, try to avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, because these concentrated drinks can easily dehydrate our body.
This article is provided by Ms. Joyce Tang, Senior Nutritionist.
Information and materials provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical or health advice from AXA Hong Kong and is on an “as is” and “as-available” basis without representation and/or warranty of any kind, either express or implied. While AXA Hong Kong has taken reasonable care in providing such information and materials, they are not specific to your investment objective, financial situation, health or medical conditions or particular needs. No warranty or responsibility is assumed by AXA Hong Kong and our related or holding companies regarding non-infringement, security, accuracy, completeness, adequacy, reasonableness, fitness for a purpose or free from computer viruses in connection with the information and materials provided. AXA Hong Kong and our related companies and holding companies do not accept any liability for any loss, damage, cost or other expense, whether wholly or partially, directly or indirectly, arising from any error, inaccuracy or omission of the information and materials to the extent that such liability is not excluded by law.
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