10 mistakes people make during cold and flu season
It's time to win the war against germs this fall and winter season.
The flu is nothing to sneeze at and can be especially dangerous for the elderly and pregnant women. In some cases, complications from the flu can lead to hospitalization.
Here are 10 surprising ways to protect yourself this cold and flu season.
1. Rethink that nightcap
An after-dinner drink may be a relaxing tonic, but researchers say alcohol can disturb sleep, especially REM sleep. REM sleep is the crucial stage where your body rests and restores itself. Sufficient sleep is considered a "vital sign of good health," according to the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But here's another way to use alcohol: Flight attendants suggest using vodka as a disinfectant and replacement for hand sanitizer because of its high alcohol count.
2. Pump up on protein
As people get older, their diets often have smaller amounts of protein. One reason is because foods high in protein often take the longest to prepare, and they're left off the menu when senior adults only need to cook for one or two people. However, protein helps build antibodies that make up a big part of your immune system. Be sure to get enough protein by using ingredients such as eggs, fish and yogurt.
3. Get some fresh air
It’s commonly thought that staying inside is better for your immune system than subjecting yourself to colder temperatures. However, being indoors puts you in close contact with other people, and their germs. Not only does taking a stroll outside help you break free from circulating germs, the exercise can lead to an increase in natural killer cells, like neutrophils, which help boost your immunity. Just be sure to bundle up before heading out.
3. Add more zinc
Zinc is essential for building white blood cells. You can get zinc from your diet through foods such as spinach, lean beef, nuts and mushrooms. If you struggle to get the recommended amount of zinc from your diet, consider adding a zinc supplement to your daily vitamin regimen. As always, ask your doctor before adding any new supplements.
4. Stay social
Stress can beat down an immune system. Relaxing and managing stress are important when trying to keep the flu or a cold at bay. To lower your stress level, make socializing a part of your schedule. Spend time with friends to take your mind off stress and find balance in your life.
5. Wipe away sweat
Another stress-relief move is hitting the gym or a sauna, and sweating is a natural process that your body uses to cool off and rid it of toxins. To avoid germs, gym owners and trainers recommend draping a towel over the mat or bench before starting your exercise. Use disinfectant wipes on weights and equipment that you touch with your hands.
6. Sanitize office spaces
Just like gyms, offices are breeding grounds for germs. Co-workers and clients touch the same things you use on a daily basis, such as elevator buttons, phones, copiers and doorknobs. Doctors say the rhinovirus, a common viral infection that causes a cold, can survive on these types of hard surfaces for two days. Disinfect your office at least once a week with cleaning products.
8. Throw gloves in the wash
Make sure to wash your cold weather gear, especially gloves. Doctors stress washing your hands, but when it's cold, your gloves touch all the surfaces your hands would normally touch. Washing your gloves is another layer of protection for your hands.
9. Get down and dirty
While washing your hands and cleaning surfaces are vital ways to stay healthy during cold and flu season, go ahead, get a bit dirty first. Dirt boosts immune systems by exposing the body to germs and allowing the body to build an immunity. Before cold and flu season sets in, do a bit of gardening or challenge yourself by competing in a muddy obstacle course with friends, for even more socialization.
10. Rethink babysitting
Colds can be longer and nastier for children than adults, increasing the amount of time that you may be susceptible to illness. Also, researchers have discovered that those with lung diseases, such as COPD or emphysema, are twice as likely to catch an infection that will develop into a full-fledged cold after being near sick children. If staying away from sick kiddos, especially those adorable grandchildren, is impossible, be sure to wash or sanitize your hands often and teach little ones to cough or sneeze into their elbow.
Of course, the flu shot is the most effective way to prevent this exhausting illness. Since the virus adapts every season, only an updated shot can keep you from contracting the flu each season. Visit Kroger's website to learn more about how the supermarket chain’s flu shots can help you and others in your community.
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