Winter can be a challenging time for some of us to avoid illness and stay healthy. With several strains of flu virus circulating more actively, it can be difficult to keep from getting sick, but there are definitely some steps you can take to retain your good health. Below are 10 tips that may help you to avoid cold and flu this winter:
- Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Probiotics and Zinc: One of the ways to protect yourself from sickness is to build up your immune system with supplements like these. Ensuring your body gets all the vitamins and minerals it needs will help avoid stress to your whole body as well as your immune system. Garlic, ginger and turmeric are also nutritious herbs and spices.
- Practice good hand hygiene and Avoid touching your face: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Remember that germs can easily enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth, so try to avoid touching your face as much as possible.
- Eat a healthy Diet: Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables in the winter months when it’s tempting to eat processed, junkier foods. Health building foods like Citrus fruits, Berries, Bell peppers, Nuts and seeds, Garlic, Beans and legumes, Yogurt and fermented foods, carrots, celery, greens, etc. are especially beneficial.
4. Try to get 7-8 hrs. sleep: Getting enough sleep can help boost your immune system and make you less susceptible to illness. A good night’s sleep can do amazing things such as help your body to fight infections.
5. Avoid close contact with sick people: Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. This may mean staying away from large groups and avoiding crowded places during peak flu season.
6. Wear a mask if needed: Sometimes we must care for a sick person or work next to a person who does not seem well. Use a mask or tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you are around anyone who is sniffling, coughing or sneezing. This provides at least a small amount of protection from inhaled microorganisms.
7. Encourage employees and family members to stay home if they are sick: If you own a business or have a family member who starts to feel sick, remind them it is wisest to stay home from work or school when they are ill, in order to avoid spreading the illness to others.
8. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
9. Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or spending time with loved ones.
10. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep your mucous membranes moist, which can help prevent viruses from entering your body. Drinking fluids – especially water – also flushes toxins from your system and keeps you healthy.
By following these 10 tips, you can improve your chances of staying well and help to protect yourself and others from the flu and other illnesses this winter. Good health to you and your family!