The next few months of November, December, and January, come with a special task - it is an assignment even more challenging than finding neutral conversation topics with Uncle Frank at Thanksgiving dinner, or figuring out the perfect gift for your sister-in-law who, let’s face it, has everything.

This is the time of year that cold and flu activity peaks, so your mission over these upcoming months is to stay well hydrated. Being hydrated has very tangible benefits to a healthier you, and a healthier family. Recent research points to the fact that you may actually ward off catching these viruses if you are adequately hydrated and staying healthy through the winter months is a holiday gift we would all love to receive.

According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential to millions of metabolic processes including fluid volume, temperature regulation, and lubrication. It is the lubrication that plays a role in reducing the amount of cold and flu viruses that enter your body. Your hydration level influences the moistness of the mucous membrane in your nose. The better hydrated you are, the moister your nasal mucous membrane, and the better it will trap dust, dirt, bacteria, and viruses, and prevent these things from entering your lungs. If you are dehydrated all these outside irritants have any easier pathway to your organs. So, this winter drink to your health – not with a Candy Cane Cosmo, but with water to combat the cold and flu.

Additionally, once you are down with a cold or flu, hydration will aid in reducing recovery time or at the very least make you feel more comfortable as you mend. Drinking more water helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration. Proper levels of hydration help diminish your headaches and boost your immune response because your immune fighters are conveyed via bodily fluids. If you are ill, drinking a cup of water every hour will help your immune system fight off the cold or flu more effectively.

But, don’t wait until you are down with the cold or flu to start hydrating. Start your hydration habit now and maybe you won’t have to spend three or four days on the couch with a box of tissues, an achy body, and a nasty cough.

Cirkul makes getting and staying hydrated easy and is perfect for the busy holiday season. Start hydrating now and you may be able to sail into the new year not just happy but healthy too.