Reducing Your Odds of Getting Sick

By Donna Stark

There really is no escaping it. Sure, many people make it through the cold and flu season just fine, but for others, the odds are stacked against them. They still need to go to school, they still need to go to work, and they still need to live with others. It's hard to know who will end up being sick, so you have to do as much as you can to reduce your risk. Here are some suggestions on how you can stay as healthy as possible and how you should deal with those around you who are exhibiting symptoms of a cold or the flu.

Wash Hands Frequently

The next time you head to the store, you may want to pick up some extra bottles of hand soap. Washing your hands throughout the day is one of the best ways to improve those odds against you. Be sure to wash them after you go to the bathroom, after you use a tissue, after you are out and about, and before you sit down to eat. If someone near you is not feeling well, wash your hands after any contact with them and if possible, use a different hand towel. And remember, try to keep your hands away from your face!

Disinfect Your Area

Keeping your personal space, and those you share with others, clean and disinfected is vital in the fight against germs. Think about everything that gets touched, such as door handles, stair railings, fixtures, remotes, shared equipment, phones, and light switches. Keep a container of disinfecting wipes in your desk or carry a few extra ones in your bag.

Boost Your Immunity

Filling your diet with nutrient-dense foods and supplementing with vitamins is a great way to help your body get through the cold and flu season unscathed. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables than ever before and ask your doctor for supplement recommendations.

Claim Your Space

Ideally, sick people should stay home, but you know that doesn't always happen, right? So, it may be up to you to keep your distance if someone is exhibiting symptoms. Perhaps you can work in another room or maybe you can scoot a few feet away from them? Just toss them a box of tissues and try to stay away as much as you can until their cold passes.

Staying Healthy

Following the simple tips above can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick with a cold or the flu this season. So, take good care of yourself and those around you, and end the year on a healthy note.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hillsboro, Ore.