The Flu and You

Are you looking to avoid the flu?  Or do you want to prevent spreading the flu?  There are a few basic tips to help you out.

·         WASH YOUR HANDS:  Use soap and warm water -- and rub hands for 15 to 20 seconds. Sing the 'Happy Birthday' song twice while rubbing, to keep track of the time.

·         SNEEZE INTO YOUR ARM:  Although most people think that coughing or sneezing into a hand is perfectly acceptable, few realize that germs are spread quickly this way.  As you begin to cough or sneeze, place your nose below the top of your arm so that the bridge of your nose is barely visible. Your nostrils and your mouth should both be covered by your sleeve, keeping your germs to yourself.

·         LOVE SICK FRIENDS FROM A DISTANCE:  One of the best things you can do for a sick friend is to let them know that you care, even from a distance.  If you have a friend that has the flu try making them a get-well basket that includes tissues, hand-sanitizer, vitamin C, etc. 

BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY

Though the basics are good preventative measure, the best is using your body’s natural defense, the immune system. 

·         EAT YOUR FRUITS AND VEGGIES: Your body can build up immunity when it gets the vitamins and minerals it needs on a daily basis. The most readily available source of these vitamins and minerals is food, especially fresh fruits and vegetables.  Fill half your plate with fruits and veggies each meal.

·         GUZZLE UP: Drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day is a great way to keep the immune system up and running. Water keeps toxins flushed out, as well as helping your body maintain its regular functions.

·         MOVE YOUR BODY: Recent studies have suggested that if you complete moderate exercise just a few times every week, you can drastically reduce the number of colds that you get every year. Just 30 minutes 3 times a week is all it takes.  Drop into one of our many fitness classes such as Boxing or Zumba to making working out fun!

·         GO TO BED: People who sleep less are actually more likely than their well-rested counterparts to fight off the flu. You should aim toget 7 hours of sleep each night.