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As the leaves fall and winter weather creeps onto the horizon, the risk for catching a nasty cold or the miserable flu increases. For people with diabetes, catching the flu can be much more than an inconvenience. In fact according to the Centers for Disease control, a diabetic is three times more likely to die from the flu and six times more likely to be hospitalized.

Obviously, all people with diabetes should get a flu shot every year to protect themselves. Most doctors specializing in diabetes also recommend that immediate family members receive a flu shot to limit exposure to the flu virus within the home.

However, as everyone knows, the flu shot is not a guarantee against catching the flu. So diabetics are always looking for ways to increase protection. On one of the social networking sites for people touched by diabetes, members are sharing with each other ideas and natural remedies to help during the cold and flu season.

One member posted an article detailing the protective powers of the common apple. It turns out apples contain quercetin, which is a flavonoid that may stave off the influenza virus when the body is under stress. Other members immediately chimed in to relate that red onions, broccoli, and tea also contain quercetin and can help. One of the positive benefits of this little-known flavonoid is that it can help boost the immune system during times of both physical and psychological stress.

In another part of the site, another member was sharing insights about the benefits of vitamin D. During the winter months, vitamin D - which the body makes from sunlight - is in short supply. The resulting deficiency can often cause a long list of painful maladies, including bone and joint pain, muscle aches, fibromyalgia syndrome, rheumatic disorders, osteoarthritis, and other complaints.

Of course the most basic of all the protective “natural” remedies to protect yourself during the cold and flu season is hand washing. People with diabetes should be extra vigilant in washing their hands regularly with a good anti-bacterial soap and warm water. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are the steps for effective hand washing:

- Wet your hands with warm, running water and apply liquid soap or use clean bar soap. Lather well.
- Rub your hands vigorously together for at least 15 to 20 seconds.
- Scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
- Rinse well.
- Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel.
- Use a towel to turn off the faucet.

Ben writes articles about Diabetes and diabetics. You can find more diabetes information by visiting DiabeticConnect.com.