5 Cold and Flu Season Health Tips

Cold and flu season is just around the corner, and once again, children and adults alike will battle it out with the cold and flu viruses. Instead of suffering this season, why not take preventative steps to protect yourself? Here are five measures for staying healthy.

Avoid Stress and Get Plenty of Sleep

Stress and lack of sleep weakens the immune system, which is your primary defense against colds and the flu. Get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Consistent bedtime hours, an exercise routine and avoiding caffeine intake during the latter part of the day will assist with sound sleep at night.

Stress also weakens the immune system. While it can't always be avoided, how you react to it is important. Taking proactive steps that address the cause of the stress and regular exercise help lower the levels of stress hormones in your system.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A well-tuned immune system requires a well-balanced diet full of essential vitamins and minerals. Don't forget to drink plenty of water. People feel less thirsty in cold weather and therefore drink fewer fluids, which is just the opposite of what you must do to fight off colds and flu.

Wash Your Hands

Cold and flu viruses enter your body through your eyes, nose and mouth. Therefore, it is important to cultivate a habit of keeping your hands away from these areas of the face. After spending time in public areas where people touch common objects such as door knobs, handles, pens and keyboards, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. While most public restrooms don't use common terrycloth towels, avoid using these should you see them in places such as small gas station restrooms.

Don't Take Non-Prescribed Antibiotics

Antibiotics work against bacterial infections. Colds and flu are caused by viruses which aren't affected by antibiotics. Taking antibiotics when they aren't needed only increases the risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria in your system.

Avoid High Risk Environments When Possible

Colds and flu can be transmitted by inhaling airborne viruses from people coughing and sneezing. Sometimes you have little control over these situations, such as the area where you work. However, be aware that confined situations, such as riding in a car with someone who is sick or spending time in crowded areas with poor ventilation, increases your risk of getting sick.

With these tips and perhaps a dash of luck, you will avoid or at least minimize the number of times that you get sick. Remember that staying healthy during the cold and flu season is an active choice on your part.

Stay healthy year-round. Call Town & Country Ins Agency at 308-346-5220 for more information on health insurance.

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