subject: Stay Healthy This Cold And Flu Season [print this page] Catching a cold or the flu (influenza) is something associated with the cold weather. Scientists feel that this is mainly because viruses last longer in cold, dry air. Added to this our mucus lining during the cold weather cannot clear it out. Both the cold and the flu virus are extremely contagious and the best thing to do is to try and avoid getting it in the first place.
Here are some health habits to observe to keep you from falling sick:
Wash your hands frequently: Make it a practice to wash your hands with soap as soon as you get back home, when you reach your school/workplace and before/after eating.
Cover your sneeze/cough: If you dont have a tissue, sneeze/cough into the crook of your elbow to avoid spreading the virus.
Stay home when you are sick: One thing that nobody wants you to share is your germs/virus. So do everyone a favour and stay home when you are sick.
Get vaccinated: In some countries, it is advisable to get a flu shot every year to prevent getting the flu.
Eat a healthy balanced diet: The immune system is what protects us from various diseases by identifying and destroying viruses, bacteria, tumor cells, etc. Most experts believe that adequately feeding your immune system can boost its fighting powers. Foods rich in vitamins A, C and E and minerals like zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids and regular exercise have all shown to be beneficial in boosting the immune system.
Exercise: Researchers have found that regularly exercise can boost the bodys immunity.
Keep yourself warm: Cover yourself adequately as long term exposure to cold weather without adequate warm clothing can lower the bodys defenses.
Along with this, it is important to keep in mind that factors such as lack of sleep, stress, too much alcohol, sugars and refined foods and too much fat can adversely affect the immune system.
Check out the diet for boosting immunity: http://www.healthji.com/special-diet/diet-for-boosting-immunity.html
