Keeping Germs Away During Flu Season
By Virginia Laird
Keeping the family well is a never-ending battle. This struggle can become even more difficult during flu season. This virus knows no boundaries, seemingly taking over wherever it deems necessary. While there is a vaccine on the market to help prevent the illness from interrupting life, it is not for everyone. Still, healthcare professionals admit there is little that can be done to eliminate the spread of the virus. The only defense you may have against the flu is to practice good health habits and hygiene, including:
- Make every effort to stay hydrated
- Try to get enough sleep
- Clean, clean, clean
Make Every Effort to Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is paramount in helping to keep the flu at a distance. When a body is dehydrated it is more vulnerable to illnesses taking over. It is recommended to drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water daily to make sure you stay properly hydrated. For those who are not lovers of plain water, try a flavored water or sports drink.
Try to Get Enough Sleep
Sleep plays a key role in helping to keep the body well and prevent illness. During flu season, it is best to get plenty of sleep. Healthcare professionals recommend adults should get a minimum of six hours of sleep each night. Children should get even more sleep than this. Check out the national sleep foundation recommendations to see if you and your family are getting enough sleep to stay healthy.
Clean, Clean, Clean
Cleaning the house frequently is one of the best things you can do to help keep the flu from taking over your home. This does not mean a deep clean each and every day. However, an antibacterial wipe to the counters, toilets, doorknobs, and other surfaces can help wipe away germs brought inside. If your home has a large number of people in and out, it may be wise to wipe the surfaces more than once each day.
In your struggle to keep the family healthy, stay close to the advice offered by those who deal with the virus regularly. With the holidays just around the corner and parties and gatherings in your future, now is a good time to begin taking all necessary precautions to keep everyone happy, healthy, and in the holiday mood.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Savannah, Ga.