A Student’s Guide to Beating Cold and Flu Season

Cold and flu season is closing in upon us, and anywhere there’s a crowd, there’s bound to be germs and viruses. Schools are high traffic areas with plenty of face-to-face contact, so they afford a perfect opportunity for the spread of influenza and other illness. As winter’s chill sets in, don’t let a common cold keep you under the weather. Here are a few tips on how to avoid getting sick and missing class!

1) De –stress Yourself!

It’s a proven fact that stress hampers our immune system’s ability to fight germs. Even taking a few minutes every day to engage in some kind of a relaxing stress-busting routine will help to boost your potential to ward off a cold!

2) Sleep!

If your body is telling you that you need sleep, then get some sleep! Feeling overly tired is often the first indicator that you’re fighting a germ. It’s when you’re at rest that your immune system can efficiently and successfully fight against microscopic invaders.

Exercise

Not only does exercise aid in releasing stress-fighting hormones, it helps your body to sleep better by tiring it out in a healthy, physical way.

4) Take a Vitamin Supplement

Researchers tell us that vitamin D is a major factor in healthy immune system functioning. Reports indicate that most people suffer from a deficiency in this vitamin during fall and winter months when they’re not exposed to as much sunlight. Echinacea is also touted as a herbal remedy to support the immune system.

5) Wash Your Hands!

The number one way to avoid communicable illness is to wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Avoid touching your face, which could allow germs to enter your system through your eyes, nose, and mouth.

6) Drink Plenty of Fluids

Fluids, especially water, can help flush out your system and ensure your body has enough hydration to perform its vital germ fighting operations!