Beat the Bug

When the twins were sick two weeks ago, I was desperate to stay healthy. This flu did not mess around-they had fever off and on for 6 days each, followed by another 6 days each nasty cough and congestion symptoms. I knew deep down that if I caught it, I'd have to hire a babysitter to care for the girls because I'd be too sick to get out of bed. And that is not an option for our budget right now!

Babies don't have an immune system, so I know every time they get sick simply helps build their bodies stronger. But, hey! I'm already strong and I want my immune system to help me out...!

So, here's what I did. (And I'm going to pretend like it's a magical, secret remedy...even though it's not magic or secret and I don't even know if it really worked.) 

First,

I slept as much as possible. I went to bed early and laid there if I couldn't sleep. I slept when the girls napped during the day. I felt it was my only real defense.

and also,

I washed my hands constantly, especially before eating. I avoided putting my fingers in my nose or eyes or ears or mouth, especially if they weren't washed. I washed the girls clothes and linens and all that pretty frequently too. I washed my face and changed my own clothes in the evenings. I've read that stuff really does travel by hands and touch more than even by breathing the same air.

and finally,

I avoided refined sugar. No brownies. No chocolate. No ice cream.  Did you know that sugar suppresses your immune system for up to 8 hours after eating it? I needed my immune system up and running, so no sweets here.

Did it work? Maybe! All I know is that I didn't get sick. And I am so very glad. Right?!

What do you do to manage sickness at your house...?


p.s. one more little thing I do sometimes for colds, too, is put a drop of hydrogen peroxide in my ears (and the babies) to kill any bacteria that might be hanging out in there...is that weird??