Easy Ways to Avoid Illness
By Sara Butler
Well, it’s that time of year again – time to try your best to dodge the cold and flu bullets! You don’t have to succumb to nasty germs this year. There are actually some very easy things you can do to ward off germs and keep yourself healthy. Try a few of these tips!
Eat Breakfast
Breakfast is your chance to fuel your body for the day and keep you healthy. Loading up on nutrient-rich foods such as eggs has been found to reduce rates of illness. While it is possible that study results are influenced by the fact that people who eat breakfast generally take better care of their bodies, there’s really no good reason not to get on the breakfast bandwagon.
Wash Your Hands – The Right Way
You probably know that washing your hands is your first line of defense again germs, but did you know there’s a right and a wrong way to go about it? The worst way to do it is to use an antibacterial soap. The antibacterial ingredients in these soaps are bad for the environment and for your health. They help to create strains of bacteria resistant to them as well, so they’re ultimately counterproductive.
The best way to wash your hands is to use regular soap with warm water. That’s it! Pretty simple, huh?
Bundle Up
You have to stay warm in order to help your body focus on the real threat: germs. But bundling up also helps your body to stay safe from germs in the outside world, too. Avoid winter clothing that claims to be germ-fighting; ironically, you don’t want to expose your body to the chemicals in these items of clothing. Instead, look for natural wool winter gear. It will keep you warm and toasty with no chemical help.
Go with Your Gut
The bacteria that live deep in your digestive system are really important to your immunity. Keep them healthy and you’ll keep yourself healthy all winter long. Make sure to include probiotic foods in your winter diet such as kefir, yogurt, and sauerkraut. Fermented foods help to support a healthy gut and may contribute to a stronger immune system too.
The key to your health this winter isn't terribly complicated. All you must do is cultivate healthy habits and you've got a good chance of escaping this winter unscathed!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbia, S.C.