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We're back this month with some more tips on healthy living! 'Tis the season to be jolly, but unfortunately, it is also a time for colds and flu! When temperatures drop, viruses can spread; if your immune system isn't up to the task, you're likely to catch the latest bug in your area . But thankfully there are many simple steps you can take to ward off sickness.
Avoid Spreading Germs
Cough into your elbow, not your hands. This will prevent the spread of germs in two different ways. It will block the germs that are coming out of your mouth and it will keep your hands germ free. Limit interaction with public objects when you can. Cold and flu germs are easily passed through hand-to-hand contact. Any way you can avoid touching public objects will limit your risk. Carry hand sanitizer with you! When researchers from Children's Hospital in Boston studied 292 families for 5 months, they found that those who carried hand sanitizer with them had 59% fewer cases of stomach bugs than nonusers. When used correctly—squirt out enough gel so your hands still feel damp after rubbing together for 10 to 15 seconds—these products nearly eliminate germs. But hand sanitizer is not a total replacement for hand washing! Note that washing your hands properly takes about as long as singing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Keep a Healthy Routine
To keep your immune system strong, you want your body working the best it can. Make sure you are exercising and eating healthy. If you do start to get sick this will help your body fight it fast so you can get back to normal.
Also make sure you are drinking enough water. It is important to make sure you replenish the water in your body throughout the day. You may also want to take a daily multivitamin. Look for one with 100% of the recommended daily values of vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and D and the minerals chromium, copper, folic acid, selenium, calcium, and zinc. Take your multi during a meal that contains a bit of fat so you can absorb the nutrients better. Another part of a healthy winter routine is to get a flu shot. An influenza vaccination can reduce the risk of flu illness by 50 to 60% in the general population and can decrease the severity and side effects if you get sick. Finally, get a good night's sleep! None of the above will help you if your body is too tired to fight off infections. Make sure you are getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night so you are well rested.
Dress Appropriately
It is important to stay warm in the winter, especially during cold weather activities outdoors . You'll lose body heat from any part of your body that is exposed, so keep covered! Key winter wardrobe items include:
- Coat or Jacket
- Scarf
- Mittens or Gloves
- Sweater
- Pants
- Warm Socks
- Boots.