5 Proven Cold and Flu Remedies For Women Who Don’t Have Time to Be Sick!

*5 Proven Cold and Flu Remedies For Women Who Don’t Have Time to Be Sick!*

Okay ya’ll I have been so vigilant the last few months about not getting sick. I am determined to be healthy this year. I’m going to make an assumption that you don’t want to get sick either so I’m excited to share 5 natural supplements you can take that have helped me so much in preventing the cold and the flu (and the C illness that can’t be named). 

Because let’s be honest. catching a cold or flu is never convenient, but for women juggling busy schedules, it can feel downright overwhelming. 

When you’re balancing work, family, and personal goals, falling ill can derail all of your plans.

So in this post, I’ll share my personal journey and five proven cold remedies that have worked for me, along with actionable tips for boosting your immune system and staying healthy during flu season. 

Whether you’re fighting off the flu virus or just want to avoid the common cold, these natural and easy (no DIY’s required) remedies can help you stay strong and focused on what matters most.  

This post contains affiliate links to great products that will help you in your health journey. I will get a commission if you decide to buy from these links but I’m only recommending products that I feel confident about and from companies that I trust like Amazon and others. Please let me know if you have any questions.

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* Why Preventing Colds and Flu Matters So Much To Me*

For two years straight, I found myself sick at the start of each new year—battling flu symptoms, lingering upper respiratory tract infections, and mysterious illnesses that left me so fatigued I could hardly load the dishwasher. 

I had to actually get a rolly chair from my office and wheel it into the kitchen so I could sit while I put the dishes away. And even then it took forever. So ridiculous!

Each time, those first three months of the year felt like a wash—spent recovering instead of pursuing my goals or fulfilling what I believed was God’s purpose for me (which is blogging and real estate).

It wasn’t just about the sore throat or nasal congestion; it was the emotional frustration of being stuck in bed while the world moved on without me.  

That’s when I realized I needed a change. Preventing illness had to become a priority, not an afterthought. 

For some reason, I had the bright idea that I only needed to take immune boosting supplements when I was sick (shaking my head). 

Of course, now I realize my mistake…finally! 

Now I take natural supplements like zinc, garlic, and elderberry and incorporate preventive strategies into my daily routine. 

And I’m starting to see a difference!

(Side note: Not only do I have a habit of getting sick at the beginning of the new year but illness also likes to travel with me when I go on vacation. So if this happens to you too and you’re sick of your dream vacations being ruined by coughs and stomach aches, check out this post on how to keep from getting sick while you travel!)

* The Science Behind Immune System Boosters  *

Let’s get nerdy and talk about the immune system—your body’s built-in defense against illnesses like the common cold, flu virus, and other upper respiratory tract infections. 

When it’s functioning properly, your immune system can fight off germs before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your body. 

But when it’s compromised by stress (source), lack of sleep (source), or nutrient deficiencies, you become more vulnerable to cold symptoms, flu symptoms, and everything in between.  

That’s why supporting your immune system ALL the time is so important. Natural remedies like elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C have gained popularity because they’re backed by research and trusted by everyday people. 

Elderberry, for instance, has been shown to help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu (I’ll share with you what I take and how I take it, coming up). 

Zinc plays a critical role in boosting your body’s immune response and can even help ward off illnesses if taken at the first sign of symptoms. 

Okay, so I’ll be real…some studies are mixed on whether or not zinc helps with colds but I can confirm through my own personal studies (done in-house, ha ha ha) that it definitely does. But I’m not a doctor so please do your own research. 

But it’s not just about supplements—it’s about creating a lifestyle that encourages overall health. Staying hydrated with water, eating a balanced diet full of natural products like fruits and vegetables, and getting enough rest are all essential.

And if you’re like me and want an extra layer of protection, a supplement like Wellness Formula, which I get on Amazon can be a game-changer. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and herbs that work together to strengthen your body’s defenses.  

Here’s the thing: your immune system doesn’t work in isolation. Your mental, emotional, and spiritual health all play a role too.

Stress, for example, can weaken your immune response, so managing it through prayer, meditation, or quiet time with God is just as important as taking care of your physical health.  

In the next section, I’ll dive into five powerful flu home remedies and natural cold remedies that I swear by—and how you can easily incorporate them into your busy life.  

* Five Proven Remedies for Colds and Flu *

When it comes to fighting the flu virus, cold symptoms, or even just feeling run down, I’ve found a handful of remedies that work well for me and my family.

I’m not a doctor or an expert—just someone who’s tried different natural remedies over the years and found what helps us bounce back faster.  

1. Elderberry

Elderberry has been a game-changer for me. I use Sambucol, either as a chewable tablet or a syrup, and it’s one of the first things I reach for when I feel cold symptoms creeping in.

It’s simple, quick, and easy to keep on hand, which is perfect for my busy life. If I take it within the first 2 hours of feeling sick, it usually kicks my cold to the curb.  

2. Zinc  

Zinc is one of those things I never want to run out of. If I start to feel off, I take a zinc lozenge or supplement right away. It helps me feel like I’m giving my immune system a little extra support, especially during flu season.  

3. Garlic 

Garlic might sound like an unusual remedy, but it’s one of my go-tos. I take odorless garlic soft gels because, honestly, I’m not about the garlic breath life! I keep them in my daily routine as part of my overall wellness plan.  

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an old favorite that I always make sure to have on hand. I like to pair it with zinc because they seem to work well together.

Whether it’s a supplement or foods like oranges and strawberries, it’s a simple way to give my immune system a boost.  

5. Mullein Tea

This one has a special place in my heart because it’s a remedy passed down from my grandmother. Whenever I have cold symptoms or feel my upper respiratory tract getting congested, I boil mullein leaves in water for about 15 minutes, strain it, and add honey and lemon. Drinking it hot feels like a warm hug for my throat, and it helps me breathe easier.  

These remedies aren’t magic fixes, but they’ve helped me and my family stay healthier and recover faster.

They’re easy to incorporate into a busy routine and don’t require a lot of effort—which, let’s be honest, is exactly what we need when we’re not feeling 100%.  

In the next section, I’ll share how leaning on faith and staying focused has helped me navigate those frustrating sick days.  

And by the way, I have 5 more proven cold and flu remedies that have worked well for me that I want to share in this post so check it out as well!

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* How Faith & Focus Play a Role in Recovery *

Getting sick isn’t just about battling cold or flu symptoms—it’s also a mental and emotional struggle. For me, being unwell can feel like a huge disruption, especially when I’m juggling responsibilities and trying to stay on track with my goals. That’s where my faith comes in.  

When I’m laid up with a sore throat or nasal congestion, I try to shift my focus from frustration to prayer (keyword here is try as that isn’t always what happens). I ask God for strength to heal and peace to stay calm.

It’s not always easy, especially when my to-do list is piling up. In fact, it doesn’t always happen. Sometimes I get really frustrated and upset when I’m sick for weeks on end.

However, I’ve found that leaning into gratitude is really the best course of action once I’ve finally accepted my condition.  

Here’s how I bring faith and focus into my recovery:  

1. Prayer for Healing and Strength

I start by praying for healing—not just for my body but for my mind too. It’s easy to feel defeated when illness throws a wrench into your plans, but asking God for strength and peace helps me reframe the situation. 

2. Practicing Gratitude  

Even in the middle of a tough day, I try to find small things to be thankful for. Maybe it’s the comfort of a warm blanket, the taste of a hot cup of mullein tea, or just the fact that I have time to rest. Gratitude helps me shift my mindset from “Why me?” to “Thank you, God, for what I do have.”  

3. Focusing on God’s Promises  

During sick days, I like to read scriptures that remind me of God’s faithfulness. Verses like Isaiah 41:10 (“So do not fear, for I am with you…”) give me hope and assurance that this is just a season, not a permanent setback.  

4. Using the Time to Reset  

While being sick isn’t ideal, I’ve learned to see it as an opportunity to slow down. Instead of pushing through, I use the time to rest, reflect, and reconnect with God. It’s like hitting the reset button for both my body and my spirit.  

By combining faith, focus, and natural remedies, I’ve found a way to recover with less stress and more peace. Being sick might pause my plans temporarily, but it doesn’t have to stop me from moving forward in faith.  

In the next section, I’ll share preventative tips that have helped me stay healthier during flu season and beyond.  

* Preventative Tips for Staying Healthy During Cold Season *

As much as I rely on natural remedies when I’m sick, I’ve learned that prevention is even better than cure.

Over the years, I’ve discovered a few simple habits that help keep my immune system strong and reduce the chances of dealing with flu symptoms or cold symptoms in the first place.  

Here are some practical tips to stay ahead of the flu virus and common cold:  

1. Prioritize Immune-Boosting Supplements  

One of the best decisions I’ve made is taking Wellness Formula daily. It’s packed with immune-supporting vitamins, minerals, and herbs, which means I no longer have to juggle individual supplements like zinc or vitamin C. A consistent routine with the right supplements has made a noticeable difference in how I feel throughout the year.  

2. Stay Hydrated 

Drinking plenty of water is a game changer. It keeps your body hydrated, supports your respiratory tract, and helps flush out toxins. When I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a slice of lemon to my water for an extra immune boost. But let’s be honest, most of the time I don’t have any lemon lol.

3. Get Quality Sleep  

I know it’s tempting to stay up late, especially when there’s so much to do, but sleep is crucial for your health. During flu season, I aim for at least 7-8… ummm 6 or more hours a night, letting my body repair and strengthen itself while I rest.  

4. Wash Your Hands Regularly 

This might seem basic, but it’s so important. Washing your hands frequently—especially after being in public places or touching your face—helps stop the spread of germs. I also keep a small bottle of natural hand sanitizer in my bag for when I’m on the go. And I keep a hand cream in my purse, in my car, and in my desk at work to keep my hands from being any drier than they already are.

5. Manage Stress  

Stress weakens the immune system, making it easier for colds and flu to take hold. I’ve found that journaling, prayer, and even a short walk outside can help me keep stress levels in check. When I make time for self-care, my body thanks me by staying healthier.  

6. Prepare for the Unexpected  

Flu season can sneak up on you, so I like to stock up on essentials like herbal teas, Sambucol elderberry syrup, and garlic soft gels ahead of time. That way, I’m not scrambling to find natural remedies when I start feeling under the weather.  

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can build a stronger defense against cold and flu viruses—and have more energy to focus on the things that truly matter.  

In the final section, I’ll leave you with some encouragement and reflection for the times when illness does come your way.  

* Encouragement and Reflection For You As You Recover* 

Getting through cold and flu season can feel like a challenge, especially when illness disrupts your plans, zaps your energy, and keeps you from focusing on what matters most. But remember this: even in seasons of sickness, God is with you.  

Taking steps to care for your health isn’t just a practical task—it’s an act of stewardship over the body He has entrusted to you. Whether you’re sipping a warm cup of mullein tea, taking your zinc supplements, or resting after a long day, these small acts are opportunities to show gratitude to Him.  

When illness strikes, give yourself grace. Let this be a time to pause, recharge, and reflect on His promises. Pray for peace, healing, and strength, knowing that He is your ultimate healer. And if you’re taking preventative steps to avoid getting sick, remember that you’re investing in the health and vitality He wants for you.  

As you navigate this season, I hope the remedies and tips shared in this post empower you to stay well and recover quickly. And when you feel overwhelmed, lean into His love and provision, knowing that even in sickness, there is purpose.  

May you walk through this season with faith, strength, and the assurance that He cares deeply for every aspect of your health and life.  

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Medical Disclaimer: While Healthy As You Can strives to provide the most accurate information, anything you read on this site is purely for informational or entertainment purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice or as a replacement for a doctor’s care, diagnosis, appointment, advice, etc. I am not a medical professional at all. Any information, tips, or ideas that you try as a result of reading this blog is tried at your, the reader’s, own risk. 

5 Powerful Mental Health Journal Lists That Will Transform Your Daily Life!

Journal Lists for Mental Health: Embrace Peace and Positivity

Psst…come here a second. Let me let you in on a little secret…

Journaling is one of the most powerful things you can do to boost your mood and mental health. I know it seems simple. You just have to pick up a pen and write or open an app and type (my preferred method). 

The thing is with the continuous rise of mental health issues around the world, there is no better time to be intentional and tend to your mental health. Continue reading

Why You Should Use Superfood Powders & 3 Ways To Sneak Them Into Your Diet!

I started using superfood powders and this happened…

Hey ya’ll,

Have you taken a look at your diet lately? Perhaps you have and found it to be less than stellar.

I can certainly relate.

If you’ve been researching things like healthy eating, plant-based diets, flexitarian diets then you’ve probably come across the term superfoods.

And while you may have heard of superfoods what you may not have heard of are superfood powders.

So I’m going to talk about that today because what I think you’ll find is that superfood powders are a lot easier to fit into your diet than superfoods themselves and they still make a huge difference in your health.

Let’s get a little sneak peek at what’s coming up in this blog post.

We’re going to talk about:

– What superfoods are

– What superfood powders are

– Do superfood powders work

– Benefits I’ve Experienced Since Using Superfood Powders

– Awesome superfood powders to try

-How to get more of them into your diet.

Plus I have a free healthy living resource library full of things that I believe you will love so stay tuned for that coming up later as well.

Now let’s get started.

Continue reading

Why I Don’t Feel Guilty If I Gain Weight & 3 Things I Do Instead!

Why I don’t feel guilty when I gain weight & what I do instead

Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit which is probably why the enemy is constantly attacking it.

Losing weight can sometimes feel like you’re getting out of quicksand.

The harder you fight to pull yourself out of the pit the further down you sink.

I sometimes find that I’m in this constant cycle of eating healthy then falling off the wagon and then eating healthy again and then falling off the wagon and then…well, you get the picture.

It’s like this constant battle that seems impossible to overcome me at times.Continue reading

I Started Using Superfood Powders And These Amazing Things Happened…

Why you should use superfood powders & how do you use/sneak them into your diet

Hey ya’ll,

Have you taken a look at your diet lately? Perhaps you have and found it to be less than stellar.

I can certainly relate.

If you’ve been researching things like healthy eating, plant-based diets, flexitarian diets then you’ve probably come across the term superfoods.

And while you may have heard of superfoods what you may not have heard of are superfood powders.

So I’m going to talk about that today because what I think you’ll find is that superfood powders are a lot easier to fit into your diet than superfoods themselves and they still make a huge difference in your health.

Let’s get a little sneak peek at what’s coming up in this blog post.

We’re going to talk about:

– What superfoods are

– What superfood powders are

– Do superfood powders work

– Benefits I’ve Experienced Since Using Superfood Powders

– Awesome superfood powders to try

-How to get more of them into your diet.

Plus I have a free healthy living resource library full of things that I believe you will love so stay tuned for that coming up later as well.

Now let’s get started.

Continue reading

5 Proven Cold And Flu Remedies That Can Prevent Or Make Your Illness Vanish!

Hey y’all,

Colds seem to follow me on every vacation I ever go on! And the flu decided one year it was best to show up during my Christmas break.

Do you struggle with colds, the flu, and sinus infections showing up at the worst times?

There truly is no great time to get a cold but it seems to me sicknesses purposely chooses to make an appearance right before a big event or occasion.

I myself am just getting over a cold and because of that I wanted to share some things that you can do to actually keep from getting sick in the first place.

Yes, that’s right. Colds don’t have to be an eventuality. Doing these 5 things really quickly actually works. I have either done them myself or I have heard of other people doing them. Continue reading

3 No-Brainer Lazy Ways To Make Eating Healthy & Delicious For Easier Weight Loss!

3 no-brainer lazy ways to make eating healthy delicious easy peasy.

I have to admit I’ve been low energy here lately.

And I certainly know why. I have not been eating as healthy as I should.

I’ve been relying on convenience foods that take no time to prepare and my energy has plummeted and weight loss has stalled.

So I know that changes need to be made. I’m assuming that if you’re here you also want to eat healthier.

Well, I’m truly glad you’re here to go on this journey with me.

I would love to just eat whatever and not worry about it but I know that meal planning and meal prepping are my friends when it comes to weight loss.

So I’ve researched and found 3 lazy, no-brainer ways to incorporate vegetables into your diet because vegetables are about the healthiest thing you can eat.Continue reading

25 Best Journal Prompts For Depression When All Hope Seems Lost!

25 Best Journal Prompts For Depression When All Hope Seems Lost

What do you do when you feel there’s no hope? Are there journal prompts for depression that can help you overcome your sense of worthlessness and loss of interest?

First I want you to know that having depression is nothing to be ashamed of. And no matter how bad things may seem, you can overcome your hopeless feelings.

Growing up as a Christian, I realized that depression does not only affect our mental state, but it can also tempt us to distrust God. So, friend if you’re carrying a heavy burden that’s already weighing you down, I want you to know you’re not alone.

Here are some journal prompts for depression that have helped me find peace and relief from depression.Continue reading

5 Sneaky Habits You Ignore That Are Destroying Your Mental Health!

It’s sad but true.

I’ve committed every single mental health mistake on this list at some point or another.

I have made so many detrimental mistakes when it comes to my mental health and I didn’t even realize what a toll these habits were taking on me.

Fortunately, the Lord has opened my eyes and I’ve been able to undo some of the damage these mental health mistakes have done. Although some, are still a work in progress!

My prayer for you is that this post can help you avoid making these same mistakes too or at least recognize that these habits may not be serving you or your emotional health. 

Continue reading

7 Airplane Travel Essentials Every Girl Needs For A Perfect Stress-Free Flight!

7 Airplane Travel Essentials For A Perfect Stress-Free Flight)

Stepping inside an airport fills me with joy.

No, it’s not because of the long lines and security checks. It’s because airports signify that adventure awaits me.

The airport is the first stop on a journey filled with exciting unknowns and memories waiting to be made.

But I know not everyone is filled with joy at the thought of jumping on a plane. Some people suffer from flight anxiety (link) or just general anxiety from any kind of travel.

I totally get that. And to be honest, I can sort of relate. Continue reading