Flu Season is Here: 5 Tips to Prevent Illness
By Virginia Laird
While I welcome the beauty of fall, I dread the flu season that always accompanies it. Although I am fully aware there is little that can be done to avoid the flu, I find myself constantly cleaning every possible surface multiple times a day with antibacterial cleaners, hoping to decrease the odds of falling victim to this illness. Along with washing your hands often, there are a few things you can do to promote good health, which can help keep some of the germs at bay, including:
- Avoid sick people where possible
- Get plenty of sleep
- Bathe before bed
- Eat a balanced diet
- Keep your hands off your face
Avoid Sick People Where Possible
While many believe sick people should stay home, some think nothing of getting out and about, exposing everyone they have contact with to their germs. This makes it even more vital that you protect yourself and your family from such exposures by steering clear of sick people, when possible. If you know someone who is sick, don’t go around them. Likewise, have the same courtesy and stay home when you are sick.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep helps the body fight off infection. When you are asleep, the body tackles illnesses and infections. It repairs itself from a grueling day. Where there is a lack of sleep, the immune system can be compromised. A great way to promote good health is to make sure you get enough sleep. It is recommended an adult should get at least six hours of sleep each night.
Bathe Before Bed
Although you may thrive on a morning shower, while it is flu season, it is vital to shower at night, as well. A quick rinse of the body, face and hair can help wash away germs you may have come in contact with that day.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Flu season is no time to be picky. It is imperative to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Making sure to have the proper nutrition can help boost the immune system, which plays an important role in fighting the flu.
Keep Your Hands Off Your Face
During flu season it is vital to keep your hands away from your face. This is especially true after touching doorknobs or other surfaces someone else may have touched. Touching your face, including your eyes, is the fastest way to get the germs inside your body.
Start making sure you are doing all you can to help yourself and your family avoid the flu by using this advice right away. Here’s to hoping you can avoid the flu this season!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Midlothian, Va.