Cold and flu season is upon us, and our main priority during this one will be avoiding the germs. During these busy fall months, it’s easy to get wrapped up in your demanding life and let yourself get run down. Whether you’re pulling all-nighters as a student or spending extra hours at work, it’s important to put your health first. When you run yourself down, your immune system becomes weak and you become more likely to catch a cold. To avoid becoming sick during this busy season, check out some of my favorite tips below:
Wash your hands-
This is the simplest way to prevent germs from spreading. The suggested time to ensure a proper germ-killing hand wash is 20 seconds. Always wash your hands before and after you use the restroom — and especially before you eat. If you are in an environment where getting up to wash your hands every so often could be problematic, keep a bottle of hand sanitizer handy. By having a disinfectant at your disposal, it will be easier and more convenient to keep on top of constant hand washing.
Take a zinc supplement-
Zinc is often used for boosting the immune system, preventing lower respiratory infections and treating the common cold and recurring ear infections. During flu season, if you feel symptoms coming on, you can take a zinc supplement to avoid falling ill. You can find zinc supplements at your nearest pharmacy or grocery store. By taking zinc supplements, you’ll be able to reduce the duration of your cold.
Hydrate and eat healthy-
Drinking water and following a healthy diet can also help boost and maintain your immune system. Maintaining a healthy immune system lessens common cold symptoms and decreases the risk of getting a cold or the flu. Drinking lots of water throughout the day is not only important for preventing colds, but it’s also important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Switching from sugary drinks to water is a simple step that will make a huge difference in how you feel. Staying hydrated is something that should be practiced every single day, but especially during the colder months. It will reduce the likeliness of becoming sick.