Colds. Everyone gets them every year. But there are many things you can to do prevent the common cold. If you take a more active approach to protecting yourself, you may be able to skip that cold this year. Follow these simple tips from top healthcare professionals and you’ll be well on your way to being the only healthy one in your office.
6. Get Enough Exercise
If you actively maintain a regular workout routine, you are doing one of the best things to help your immune system. Exercise enhances the natural functioning of your immune system so it will be stronger when trying to stave off an illness like the common cold. Stress, which is another factor in weakened immune systems, can be reduced through exercise as well.
5. Eat Healthy Foods
Colorful fruits and vegetables provide many of the nutrients which are best for your body. Carrots, broccoli, spinach, oranges, apricots, and blueberries are excellent choices, especially for snacking. They have many antioxidants, including vitamins E & C and beta-carotene, which help boost the immune system and improve resistance to new infections. They contribute to the skin and linings in the nose and lungs to defend against germs. Garlic and other herbal supplements can also provide antibacterial defense.
4. Get A Good Night’s Sleep
When your body gets a full night’s rest, its ability to fight infections is greater. If you aren’t getting enough sleep, your immune system will weaken, won’t be able to work as hard, and will make you more susceptible to colds, flus and other infections.
3. Stay Away From Sick People
This might sound like a no brainer, yet people still don’t stay aware enough of others. If you see someone showing signs of a cold, like sneezing, coughing, or sniffling, just don’t go near them. The germs are spreading into the air and if you are close, your body will come into contact with those germs. It’s also a good idea to not share food or drink with anyone who is ill. This is an easy rule to follow, but remember, it includes your family members and friends.
2. Clean, Clean, Clean!
While it’s important to keep your house clean at all times, it’s even more important to do so during cold and flu season. Germs can live for several hours on hard surfaces and fabrics. Disinfecting counters, sinks, doorknobs, phones, and other common surfaces can help reduce the spread of germs. The same goes for towels – wash them frequently and don’t share towels with someone who has been or is currently sick.
1. Wash Your Hands
This is the easiest of all to help prevent colds. Your hands acquire many germs throughout the day due to being in public places, including shaking someone else’s hand. You should also refrain from touching your mouth, nose, and eyes frequently when you may have germs on them. Washing your hands will destroy any viruses you may pick up. You can also use hand sanitizer when you are on the go.
