Staying Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

It’s that time of year again and I can already count on two hands the number of my friends who have been sick. Lately, it’s been the upper respiratory type of colds, that if left unchecked, can move into the chest and turn into bronchitis. What are some ways to keep you and your family healthy?       We hear it so many times, but yes, washing your hands, drinking lots of water, eating well, and getting plenty of rest are your best lines of defense. I wrote a previous blog entry on vitamins found in colorful whole foods. If you eat a variety of whole foods every day you will be ahead of the game by getting vitamins A, B, C, and E in their natural state. You can get vitamin D by spending 15 minutes a day outside in the direct sunlight. Often vitamins found in foods are combined with other nutrients that work together to give you what your body needs. So, while supplements can be helpful…the best way to get your vitamins and nutrients are by eating colorful whole foods.         Water, water, water! It is so important to make sure we stay hydrated throughout the day. I have found that I naturally drink less water in the fall and winter because I do not feel as thirsty as I do in the summer. Therefore, I need to remind myself to drink water even if I am not thirsty. One of my co-workers explained that she drinks 16 oz. of water first thing in the morning when she wakes up because she knows when she gets busy throughout the day, she doesn’t drink enough.         I work with young children through our Food Is Elementary program, and we remind the students to cough or sneeze into their elbow or shirt. This keeps germs off of their hands which can easily be spread. Also, we remind students of the importance of washing hands, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or working with foods. These reminders are good for adults too. I now cover my mouth by coughing into my sleeve as shown in this picture.         Finally, getting enough rest is crucial. This one is difficult sometimes since so many of us are so busy. However, it is very important. One thing that really helps me is to have everything ready for work the night before so that I can sleep in as long as possible in the morning. Some folks prefer to just go to bed earlier and then get up earlier and have more time to prepare for work.         Whatever way works for you is great….but take some time to pamper yourself and remember whatever is good for children is also good for adults. Most of us want what’s best for children; the best foods, plenty of time to sleep, plenty of time to play, daily exercise, enough water to drink, and enough love. So, prevent colds and flus this season and treat yourself well!  Here are some links to some sites that offer tips for staying healthy.  http://www.ehow.com/how_4776387_stay-well-during-flu-season.html?ref=fuel   http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/71811/preparing_ or_cold_and_flu_season.html?cat=25