How to beat the cold

Photo credit: Brooke Morrill

Now that the weather has turned colder, you can’t walk down the halls without hearing a sneeze or a cough. It’s the new Cold War. You try to avoid touching or being near people who are infected and you wash your hands frequently, but chances are you are still going to get sick. Avoid getting sick with these five helpful hints:

Wash Your Hands Properly

In Time Canada’s article, “How to Avoid Getting Sick”, Dr. Carolyn C. Lopez, of the American Academy of Family Physicians said, “Good hand washing will do more to prevent the spread of illness and respiratory infections than anything else.”

However, it must be done properly. First, wet your hands with water and add soap. Then lather your hands aggressively for at least 20 seconds. For a lot of people, it helps to sing a short song in their head. A quick wet and go will not kill or get rid of any germs so make sure you take the time to circle them down the drain.

Build up Your Immune System

Give your body the right vitamins and minerals it needs to help you fight off those pesky germs. Keep a food diary of what you eat and/ or take daily vitamins to make sure you get all you need for your body to keep working properly. Exercise is also a great way to boost your immune system. Trying to live a healthy lifestyle will keep you healthy.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Fluids

This is especially important if you are starting to feel a little sick. Water is your best friend when it comes to flushing out toxins, mucus, and whatever else may be building up in your body.

If vomiting is occurring, water will keep you from becoming too dehydrated.

Get Enough Sleep

We are getting to the final countdown of the semester, which means you are likely more focused on catching up on homework than sleep. Yet the less sleep you get, the less focused your mind will be and your body will be less focused on keeping you healthy. 6.5 to 7.5 hours is the average amount of sleep that your body needs in order to achieve its full potential.

Some things you can’t avoid. These hints might get you closer to being healthy this winter, but following all the rules, this is still a fight you might lose. However, don’t take chances. Every bit helps and you can beat this cold if you make the effort.