When the children are back in school and the cold weather arrives, it’s a certainty that cold and flu season will soon follow. But you can take several proactive measures to reduce the number of colds your family acquires during the winter months. Simple actions like getting sufficient rest and eating well can help to improve your body’s ability to withstand attacks from cold germs. Here are 3 important tips you can implement that have a measurable effect on family health to resist the germs that cause the common cold.
1 –Practice Good Hand Sanitation
The most common ways cold germs are spread is through hand-to-hand and hand-to-face contact. You can reduce your risk of spreading germs by practicing good hand sanitation habits. Wash your hands frequently, especially when you are in crowds and public places. Use hand sanitizer throughout the day. Avoid touching your face, biting your nails, or other hand-to-face contact. If you are in a public space and have to cough or sneeze, use the “face-into-sleeve” technique. This strategy will help to reduce the amount of germs spread to other people.
2—Use Separate Cups And Utensils
During flu season, kids often share items that can spread germs. Remind them not to share cups, utensils, etc. Label food and drink containers with names to avoid spreading germs at home. This simple measure can go a long way in preventing the spread of colds and flu among children.
3—Improve Your Immune System Function
Another way you can help prevent colds is to boost your immune system during cold and flu season. Add more green, leafy vegetables and colorful fruits to your daily diet. This will increase the amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants you receive. Keep strawberries, blueberries, and citrus fruits available for snacking. Improving indoor air quality with an air filter or humidifier can help your body fight off germs and reduce the risk of catching a cold during winter.
The condition of your immune system determines how susceptible you are to picking up a cold germ. You can improve your odds of staying cold-free by stepping up your self-care strategy during the winter months. These 3 tips are recommended to help you resist colds and prevent more serious secondary infections if you do catch a cold. Follow these tips, and you will be able to enjoy a healthier winter season.
2 Comments
This time of year, my family seems to pass colds around. I do try and wash hands religiously, especially before meals. I also try to get plenty of sleep and eat a balanced diet.
These are definitely good tips. I try to wash my hands a lot, especially right after I get home from being out. And I’ve been taking supplements for my immune system, like zinc and elderberry syrup.