Healthy Winter TIps

Tis' the season to be sneezing, and coughing, and sniffling oh my!

As winter blows in, so does an array of sickness causing strains of viruses.

Evidence has proven that most illnesses are transmitted through contact. Particular viruses and bacteria's can be transmitted through the air, but most transmissions occur through contact. Have you sanitized your keyboard lately?

Common sense goes a long way in all things, especially when it comes to preventing oneself from getting sick during winter months. Not that anyone should have to remind you, but wearing a hat, gloves, scarf, warm water proof boots, and a heavy coat during cold weather is probably one of the smartest things you can do to avoid getting sick.

Now that that's out of the way, here are some more tips to help you avoid getting sick this winter.

1. Wash your hands often. Bacteria and viruses are easily transferred from person to person through casual contact. Make sure to wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water.

2. Take a good multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplement to help your bodies own immune system be more prepared to ward off nasty invaders.

3. Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables. Eating foods high in saturated fats and sugar slow the bodies immune system making the body more susceptible to germ invaders.

4. Avoid shaking people's hands. I realize this may sound rude, but hey, you never know where that guy/gal's hands have been.

5. Carry hand sanitizer, and use it whenever soapy hot water is unavailable.

6. If you don't feel well, stay home and nurse yourself until you feel better.

7. If you suspect friends or family may be sick, hold off on your visit until they are feeling better.

8. Get plenty of rest. A run down body is far more likely to be susceptible to illness than one that is well rested.

9. Make sure to wipe down surfaces like computer key boards, cell phones, and handbag handles with a sanitizing wipe to kill harmful germs.

10. Don't neglect your exercise routine. Exercise builds the bodies natural immune system as well as enhances overall well being. A fit body, is a healthy body.

And if you do find yourself nursing a cold or flu this winter, take the time to focus completely on you. Drink plenty of fluids, double up on your vitamin C, put your feet up, eat that chicken soup, read that book you've been meaning to read and love yourself back to health.