By Connie Colbert
Director, Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
Flu and cold season is upon us! Prevention is the key to staying healthy. Here are some tips to prevent illness:
- Wash your hands. Studies show that simple hand washing can help prevent a large number of illnesses.
- Do aerobic exercises regularly. It increases your body’s natural virus-killing cells.
- Don’t cover your cough and sneezes with your hands.
- Avoid sharing beverages. Germs spread easily through sharing of drinks.
- If you are sick, do not force yourself to go to class or work. You will only feel worse and you will infect others.
- Get to the doctor.
- Drink lots of fluids. Colds and flu can deprive your body of much needed fluids. Rehydrate by drinking plenty of water or drinks containing electrolytes, such as Pedialyte or Gatorade.
- Get a flu shot.
- Don’t smoke.
- Avoid ill friends and co-workers.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth. The membranes in these areas make it easy for bacteria and viruses to enter your body and cause infection.
- De-stress. There is evidence that your immune system revs up when you relax. Prayer and meditation daily for 15-30 minutes are great ways to get this one in!
- Avoid sugar and eat more fruits and veggies. The dark green, red and yellow ones carry the most nutrients.
