The holidays might be over, but cold and flu season will stick around a bit longer. As students prepare to return to campus, here are a few ways to stay healthy and avoid catching a bug this winter.
Wash your hands
The easiest way to stop the spread of germs is to wash your hands frequently. Make it a habit to wash your hands after a day out or before a meal with hot water to kill germs.
Hand sanitizer
Washing your hands is essential, but hand sanitizer can save the day when no bathroom is nearby. You can purchase a pocket hand sanitizer for your bag between classes or keep one in your car after your Walmart runs.
Hands off
Germs can spread quickly through touch, so if you are one of those shoppers who has to touch everything in the store, hold off until spring. Avoid touching unnecessary items and surfaces if you can.
Vitamins
Whether you are an avid vitamin taker or new to the game, ensuring you get daily nutrients through vitamin supplements or incorporating vitamin-rich foods in your diet can help strengthen your immune system.
Water
Hydrate. Drinking water and avoiding sweeter options can help strengthen your immune system and keep you feeling healthier and stronger overall.
Healthy foods
While eating healthy after the holidays can be tricky, it’s not impossible. Diversifying your plate and adding a balance of fruits, veggies and proteins can help you maintain a strong immune system.
Flu Shot
If you plan on or procrastinate getting the flu shot this year, move on. While the shot might not guarantee you leave flu season unaffected, it is a good deterrent.
Avoid
If someone you know is sick, give them the space to heal so they recover faster and you don’t catch whatever they’re dealing with.
Sleep
It can be difficult, but getting a good night’s sleep helps your body and mind stay healthy during flu season. Adequate rest allows your immune system to rebuild better each night and fight off germs.
Stress management
Everything depends on your immune system, and one way to keep things running smoothly is to lower your stress levels. Stress can strain the immune system and make you more susceptible to infection.
Already sick
If you are already sick or feeling the effects, go to the doctor, get checked out, and then apply all of the above. Drinking fluids, eating healthier foods, sleeping, taking vitamins, and getting lots of sleep should help you get through your illness.
