This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wash U chapter.
Finals: the most stressful time of the year when our immune systems are pretty much shot. I always find myself getting sick when I’m sleep-deprived and stressed to levels I didn’t even know existed. However, through my experiences, I have found that there are some effective ways to avoid catching bugs.
- Airborne– This stuff saves lives. Buy either the chewable or dissolvable tablets and take them when your roommate, suitemate, or someone that you spend a lot of time with gets sick. You should also take Airborne when you start to feel a little under the weather. A few times a day is ideal. Emergen-C is pretty much the same thing, but I swear by Airborne.
- Exercise- Exercising everyday or every other day will help to boost your immune system and keep you healthy. Even on those days where you have so much work to do you think your head is going to explode, try to go to the gym for a bit. Bring your notes or a book to look over while you ride the bike or walk on an incline.
- Sleep- I should probably take my own advice, because during finals, I can safely say I get no more than five hours of sleep a night. Although as college students, eight hours of sleep seems almost unattainable, aiming for six or seven will help to keep you healthy and less susceptible to sickness.
- Fresh and nutritional foods- Eating healthier will not only help to make you feel better and more ready to study, but they will also aid in boosting your immunity. Fruits, vegetables, Greek yogurt, and other foods high in nutrients are an easy way to give yourself a leg up when it comes to staying healthy.
- Fluids- Drink LOTS of water or tea. Orange juice works too. The more fluids the better!
- Laundry- Although I know it’s a pain, try to do your laundry more often than usual, especially towels, sheets, and other items you wash less frequently. Towels and sheets can gather germs the longer they sit, especially if your suitemates are sick.
- Don’t share food and drinks- Sharing only increases your chances of getting sick. Use your own silverware, water bottle, and cups even if both you and your friend aren’t sick (yet).
While you may want to stay up all night and study until you drop, don’t forget to take care of yourself! Your body will thank you.
Image courtesy of Health.com