Post-holiday blues and empty resolutions are not the only things January and February seem to bring. These cold winter months can also be referred to as “flu season.” And by “flu season”, I also mean strep, mono, pneumonia, sinus infection, and common cold season. Everyone knows to wash their hands and sleep a lot to avoid catching a cold, but below are more specific tips on how to avoid nasty sickness. Hope you got your flu shot…
1. Gorge on Immune Support Drinks
Emergen-C, Airborne, or Zarbee’s should become your best friend. These vitamin C-rich drinks are one of my favorite ways to stay healthy. Immune support drinks generally come in either powder or tablet form. Simply add water, stir, and drink. These products are sold at most grocery stores, Target, and Amazon, so go try one if you haven’t yet! Drink one every morning, you will feel a noticeable change in your health.
2. Eat Vitamin Rich Foods
During the winter, many people do not get enough vitamins — particularly vitamin C and D — because of the lack of sunshine and outdoor activity. Eat more foods with vitamin-rich sources such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and whole grains. These foods will increase your chances of staying healthy because they strengthen your immune system! Sugary junk foods, alcohol, and tobacco products can actually weaken your immune system, so try to avoid these at all costs.
3. Sanitize, Sanitize, Sanitize!
Always keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket or bag. You never know when someone might sneeze or cough near you. Chances are someone who is sick has touched the same door handle as you, so be prepared! Also, clean surfaces that you touch frequently but might not think about sanitizing— such as your phone screen, your computer, your backpack, and more.
4. Exercise Regularly
Research has shown that moderate exercise can help boost your immune system. Continue to exercise at a normal rate, but do not overdo it. Remember that your body is already working extremely hard when it’s fighting off illness. Be kind to yourself.
5. Stay Hydrated
This one may seem obvious, but staying hydrated is vital to maintaining health. Water flushes out toxins and unwanted germs, so drink lots of water throughout the day. Medical professionals recommend drinking half your body weight in ounces each day.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Maintaining a strong mind-body connection is important to manage health. Not only is your physical health affected by illness, but your emotional health can be too. Remember to take time for yourself each day— even if it is just a few minutes. Try to do small activities that bring a smile to your face such as watching an episode of your favorite TV show or hanging out with friends.
Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323431.php#prevention
https://www.health.com/condition/cold-flu-sinus/13-ways-to-avoid-getting-sick-with-a-cold-or-the-flu