Everyone recognizes winter as a prime time for illness. From the flu to strep throat and pneumonia, winter is a germy time of year. Fortunately there are a lot of ways to protect yourself from getting sick this winter. Take a look at the following suggestions.
Wash Your Hands
The surfaces containing the most germs are those that people touch on a daily basis — phones, light switches, desks, grocery carts, etc.
Bacteria and viruses on those surfaces are transferred very easily to your hands and then subsequently your mouth if you don’t wash your hands before eating. Frequent hand washing all of the time, but especially in the winter is very important. For those times when you don’t have access to a sink, keep a bottle of hand sanitizer nearby.
Stay Hydrated
Winter is a very dry time of year, and because it is so cold, individuals often forgo drinking adequate amounts of water.
It’s very important to drink enough water, every single day. The Institute of Medicine recommends (on average) a water intake of 13 cups per day for men and nine cups per day for women. These figures may vary based on an individual’s activity level, body weight and the climate in which they live.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is a recommendation all year round. Fruits and vegetables contain important vitamins and minerals essential to your body’s functioning.
To avoid getting sick, be sure that you are eating enough fruits and veggies as well as lean meats and whole grains. Junk food (potato chips, candy bars, cookies, etc.) are high in carbohydrates, fat and calories. These foods should be very limited in a healthy diet. If you have questions about your diet and what foods you should eat, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is another important element to the optimal functioning of the body. The human body should never be sedentary; it’s simply not how it was designed to be. An active lifestyle is essential to being well. Make an effort to be active every single day.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst things to do to your body. Smokers statistically get sick more often than non-smokers because smoking weakens the immune system. If you continue to smoke, you will eventually get sick. Stop smoking.
See Your Doctor Regularly
A relationship with a family physician is very important to your health.
The new health care emphasizes the importance of regular visits with your physician as well as preventative medicine. Be sure to see your doctor on a regular basis and at least once yearly for an annual wellness visit.
Jon J. Floriano MD LLC is located at 15561 West High St., Harrington Square, Middlefield.
Call 440-632-1118 to make an appintment.