Whether or not you have the flu right now or just want to prevent it, here are some tips to stay healthy this winter:
1. Always wash your hands - after coughing, after sneezing, before and after eating, and any time your hands could come into contact with surfaces like desks and doorknobs. Cold and flu viruses are spread by physical contact, so just follow this simple, obvious step for prevention.
Tip: If you can't find a sink, rub your hands together for about a minute. Or use an alcohol-based sanitizer to kill germs.
2. Fluids, fluids, fluids: Water flushes out your system and replenishes it, which is a key element to prevent illness.
Tip: A typical adult needs eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, but your body needs even more when you're sick. Make sure to keep your Nalgene on hand to keep track of how much you're drinking - try and refill it two or three times.
3. Get some fresh air: In cold weather, central heating can dry the body out, so stepping outside is essential to staying healthy.
Tip: Germs spread in dry, stuffy rooms, so be sure to air out your dorm or apartment. As nice as staying tucked away in bed sounds, a quick trip outside can help.
4. Throw out those cigarettes: Studies have proven that cigarette smokers are more susceptible to colds.
Tip: Even if you don't smoke, make an effort to stay away from people who smoke, since smoke-infested air can dry out your nasal passages. This can make even a healthy body cough and wheeze.
5. Cut back on the booze: Alcohol not only deteriorates the liver, the body's primary filtering system, but it also dehydrates your body, making you more prone to illness.
Tip: If you start feeling less than great, but a Friday night in bed isn't an option, try to drink water at the bar instead of beer, since it constantly replenishes the body.
Information courtesy of www.WebMD.com.
