How to Make Your Flu Shot Last Longer

According to realage.com, the flu shot does not last as long in elderly people. In fact, they claim that 25 percent of elderly that receive a flu shot still do not have adequate protection. This may be because of underlying illness, an aging immune system, dietary factors, prior vaccinations, and exposure to other flu viruses.

Making it last longer

It is suggested that after you receive your flu shot, you take a walk. Those who exercise regularly will derive more antibodies from the vaccination. The shot will also last longer if you continue to exercise three times a week. Those who get the shot and are not active will not derive the full benefit. This was determined after a study on older adults.

Food to boost your immunity

You can also send in some reinforcements by eating foods that your immune system loves.

• Yogurt - You can take a 20 mg acidophilus supplement a couple of times a day or eat unpasteurized yogurt. It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus which is a healthy bacteria that helps to fight infections.
• Oranges - Your immune system can fend off invaders better if you consume oranges which are full of vitamin C. This vitamin is also found in bell peppers, cantaloupe, strawberries and broccoli. If you cannot eat these foods, take 400 mg of vitamin C up to three times a day.
• Pumpkin Seeds - You do not have to wait for Halloween to eat pumpkin seeds, since they are full of zinc and have been proven to reduce the average length of a cold.
• Onions - Don't worry about your breath since onions are full of flavonoids and are a powerful substance that can reduce aging of the immune system. You can also find flavonoids in broccoli, tomatoes, apples, berries and tea.

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

Don't throw away those pumpkin seeds from your Halloween pumpkin - you can roast and eat them to boost your immunity:

First rinse the seeds under cold water and pick up out the pulp and strings. Place seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with a little sea salt, if desired and then bake at 325 degrees until lightly toasted (about 15-20 minutes).

Info about the Flu Shot

A flu shot is a vaccine containing an inactivated or killed virus. The influenza viruses are grown in eggs. The vaccine can protect against influenza viruses that research has indicated will most likely be the most common during the season.

Who should not get a flu shot?

Those who have had a several allergic reaction to eggs or to a previous flu shot or persons with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.