The winter is one of those seasons when everyone is cautious of getting sick. Whether it’s a regular cold or the flu traveling around, it’s been found that our immune systems are weakened during the colder months of the year. In order to avoid getting sick and missing out on school or work, it’s time to start thinking about prevention right now. Here are 6 tips to help you stay healthier this winter.
Drink water
Think about how plants need water in order to grow and stay healthy. The same idea exists for us. In order to be nourished and hydrated, the recommended amount of water to drink throughout the day is between six to eight glasses. To help you achieve this amount, try drinking a glass of water before every meal and during every meal. You should also drink a full glass of water before taking any medication or vitamins. Just remember, if you’re an avid coffee drinker, this means your body needs more than the average amount of water since coffee dehydrates you!
Keep stress levels low
Stress is hard to avoid, especially during the holiday season. The truth is, when you’re stressed out, your immune system is weakened, leaving you more suseptible to coming down with something. In order to lower your stress level, trying to work more reasonable hours and spending more time with family and friends is a great start. Spending less time doing what causes you stress will help you get through the winter with less of a chance of catching a cold.
Eat healthy
You are what you eat, right? It is true that the healthier you eat, the healthier your body is. The same goes for your immune system. If you’re constantly eating fatty foods that have very little nutritional value, chances are you aren’t getting the nutrients to sustain a strong and healthy body. Try eating foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients, including fruits and vegetables to get the most out of what you’re eating.
Exercise regularly
Exercise goes right along side of eating healthy. If you live a healthy lifestyle, chances are you’re going to be healthy. Whether you’re an athlete or you just spend 30 minutes a day walking, get out and get your body moving.
Sleep tight
Sleeping eight hours a night is key to being healthy and flu-free. If you’re getting less than seven hours of sleep per night, your body will become much more vulnerable to illness, especially during flu season. Give your body the ability to recharge by getting the adequate amount of sleep every night.
Wash your hands
It doesn’t matter if you’re in the bathroom, cooking in the kitchen or just took the dog for a walk, be sure to wash your hands regularly. Keeping the bacteria and viruses off of your hands and away from your mouth and eyes is a great way to protect yourself from getting sick.
By following the tips above, you should notice there’s one common trend. If you live a healthy lifestyle, chances are you’re going to be less likely to come down with a cold or the flu. Follow the general health advice you grow up with and stick to it, especially during the winter and you should get through the winter without missing a beat!
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Emily Carmichael is a freelance writer who is always looking for new ways to live a healthy and happy lifestyle. She especially understands the importance of immune support, specifically during the winter months to keep her healthy and flu-free!