It’s that time of year again. The weather is changing, the leaves are falling, and you, my dear, will soon start to feel yourself getting sick. Here are some tips from your mother to stay healthy this cold and flu season.
Wash Your Hands
Seriously, there are too many people at BC who do not wash their hands after using the bathroom. But going beyond how disgusting that is in and of itself, not washing your hands is a great way to contract a cold. “According to research from 17 studies the simple act of hand washing reduces the risk of getting a stomach bug by as much as 47%” (Hygiene Council). Portable hand sanitizer is also great to use if you can’t get to soap and water.
Stay Hydrated
Making sure you are drinking plenty of water will help keep your body refreshed. Water will help flush your body of toxins (aka those pesky things that will get you sick.)
Take Your Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps boost your immune system. If you have a high functioning immune system, you are less susceptible to catching something.
Catch Some Zs
I know it might seem impossible to get adequate sleep in college a lack of sleep can make us more prone to catching colds and the flu. So while you might think you are fine only sleeping 5 or 6 hours, during the colder months try aiming for 8 to stay healthy or try taking a nap during the day to wind down and refresh your system.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/immune-system-lack-of-sleep
http://www.hygienecouncil.org/Portals/1/pdf/Media_The_Truth_About_Germs_Fact_Sheet.pdf
http://www.thefutureorganization.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/staying-…
https://bihs-wiki.wikispaces.com/file/view/handwashing.jpg/243488993/handwashing.jpg
http://rpmftns.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Sleep-is-Good.jpg