It’s easy to slip into bad habits as the weather cools down, kids go back to school and schedules become more hectic. Now is not the right time to relax, especially with the cold and flu season around the corner.
While you’re likely familiar with the basics for staying healthy in cold and flu season. Here are some reminders.
Wash Your Hands Often
Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly is one of the easiest and most effective methods to prevent the spread of germs
Use soap and warm water to wash your hands for 30 seconds or a hand sanitizer if soap and hot water are not available.
Wash your hands before eating:
- After sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose
- Before eating and after preparing food
- After using a restroom
- After touching common surfaces such as doorknobs or railings
- If you have dirty hands,
Be careful not to touch your face in particular your eyes, nose and mouth.
Eat Healthy Food
The food you consume each day has a major impact on the health of your immune system .
For optimal immune health, reduce or eliminate sugary food and beverages from your diet.
Drink water, tea, or sugary drinks instead of soda, alcohol, and sugary juices.
Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi can also help support a healthy digestive system, which is important for a robust immune system.
Stay Active
It is not only about building muscle. Exercise can also help reduce stress, improve your sleep and maintain a healthy immune.
If you’re not able to make it to the gymnasium, there are still plenty of ways to remain active .
Try a dance or yoga class, go for a walk in the neighborhood or take a swim. Take your kids or grandchildren outside to play, take a bike ride or walk the dog longer than usual.
Choose an activity that you will enjoy to make it more likely you will stick with it.
Get enough good sleep
Sleep problems can have a negative impact on your mental and physical health.
Adults need between 7-8 hours of sleep per night. This means uninterrupted sleep, in a dark, cool and quiet room.
There are several things that you can do if you’re having trouble sleeping or falling asleep.
- Create a consistent sleeping schedule by going to sleep and waking up each day at the same times, even during weekends
- Limit caffeine, nicotine and alcohol consumption in the evening
- Avoid using electronic devices in bed
- Establish a relaxing bedtime or evening routine that includes reading, taking a bath or other activities.
- Talk to your doctor about the possible causes of sleep problems.
Manage Stress
Stress can deteriorate your immune system , making you more susceptible to sickness.
It’s crucial to find ways to reduce stress in your daily life.
Because everyone has different stressors, and different ways to cope with them, there isn’t a solution that fits all.
Some healthy coping mechanisms are:
- Creative hobbies (paintings, music, writings, etc.) )
- Sports and games
- Meditation or prayer based on mindfulness
- Spending time in nature
- How to talk with friends and family
Here are some of the things you can to do stay healthy this cold and flu season. Take a few simple precautions to keep you and your family healthy.
