As it gets colder and we spend more time indoors, cold and flu season arrives with its familiar chorus of sniffles, coughs, and sneezes. It can be impossible to avoid every germ, but the good news is that staying healthy during these months does not require complicated routines. With simple everyday habits, from nutrition to sleep and good hygiene, you can reduce your chances of getting sick and recover faster if you do get sick. You want to take the steps to protect yourself and your family without letting cold and flu season disrupt your life.
Your immune system works around the clock to protect you from getting sick, but it needs the right fuel to function at its best. Think of it like this, you would not expect your car to run on an empty tank, and your immune system is no different. Your diet is the biggest part of the equation, so make sure you include loads of colorful fruits and vegetables. You should also be staying hydrated and making sure you are getting enough sleep. Including these simple habits really can have an influence whether you get sick or not. When you are running low on sleep and living off coffee you are welcoming in an opportunity for whatever cold or flu is making the rounds. Taking care of the basics is not glamorous but it will be your best line of defense during cold and flu season.
Beyond what you put in your body, the habits you practice throughout the day can help keep germs at bay. From washing your hands regularly to avoid touching your face through the day. There are so many ways germs can enter our body we do not realize until it is too late. During the day we touch so many surfaces that other people touch from doorknobs, grocery carts, and shared office equipment, each one has the potential to make you sick during cold and flu season. The most effective way to prevent germs from reaching you is washing your hands, especially before eating, whether you are at home or at a restaurant. Keep hand sanitizer with you for time when you cannot get to a sink. These simple small actions might not feel like much but give you more a chance of not getting the flu.
Even if you take precautions to prevent the flu, you might still end up getting sick and that is okay as no prevention method is perfect. But nourishing your body with good food, getting enough sleep, practicing smart hygiene habits, and being mindful of your surrounds during cold and flu season will give you the best chance of staying healthy. The key is consistency to take care of yourself and not wait till you start to feel sick to prioritize your health. Cold and Flu season does not have to mean inevitable sick days. With a little awareness and prevention habits you can protect yourself and enjoy the colder months feeling your best.
To learn more about how to prevent the flu click here.
Written by Emily Bannerman