How to Avoid Getting Sick this Winter

As the colder months approach, we all should take special precautions to avoid getting sick this winter. The holidays are a busy time of year where we prepare the house to take in guests, go on shopping sprees, and spend lots of time layering your family to stay warm. In efforts to have fun during the holidays, we do all we can to avoid getting sick. But are our efforts in vein? Are we taking the right steps to avoid getting sick? Here are a couple of tips to stay healthy this winter.

1. Getting Sleep

Our bodies do a great job at repairing themselves. When we sleep 6-8 hours we are allowing ourselves adequate rest and our body can perform optimally.

2. Eat Healthy

I know. It can be hard to eat healthy with all the amazing food that comes with the season. Along with eating all the wonderful meals here are easy things you can do in between holiday parties to keep you healthy.

Eat more fish. Increasing your intake of omega-3 increase the production of infection-fighting cells.

Use rosemary in your recipes. Rosemary contains carnosic acid which is a great antiviral ingredient.

Ginger Oil is a wonderful an antiseptic. Add a drop to hot water or your favorite tea to spice it up. (Also, ginger oil helps your digestive system.)

3. Wash Your Hands and Dry Them

It’s a shame that in this day and age we have to remind people to wash their hands. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve been in a public restroom and other gentlemen walk out without washing their hands. Get some hand soap, wash your hands, and dry them! Dry hands are less likely to spread germs. Afterwards, avoid touching your nose, eyes, mouth, etc. This is how germs are spread.

4. Get Your Shots

“The number one thing you can do to prevent the flu is get vaccinated,” Bill Shaffner, M.D.

5. Laughter

Laughter is great for your immune system. Hopefully this comes naturally around this time of year when we get together with friends and family.

6. Oral Health

Our mouths are breeding grounds for germs. Prevent getting sick by flossing and brushing your teeth. An important ingredient to look for is xylitol. Xylitol is a natural plant derivative and a natural sweetener usually used in toothpaste, gum, and breath mints. Linked are products that contain xylitol.

Studies have shown that xylitol can prevent streptococcus pneumoniae and reduce your risk of ear and sinus infections.

7. Reduce Stress

Along with the festivities come stress. Having the house clean, buying the perfect gifts, making sure each holiday is special, etc. Make sure you take time to take a breather. Meditation, Yoga, and Prayer are excellent places to start.

Take these tips into account this winter. Keep your family and yourself healthy. Enjoy this time of year.

Cheers,

-Uncle Gary