Colds, the flu, and other respiratory illnesses spike in the cold winter months. With more people staying indoors and the cold weakening immune systems, it’s important to know how to stay healthy.
One of the best ways to keep the majority of people healthy is to stop the spread of viruses early. Always remember to cover your mouth and nose with your elbow when you cough or sneeze so that germs do not become airborne for other people to breathe in. Frequent hand washing or sanitizing also limits illness spreading via frequently touched surfaces. Remember that it is always a good idea to stay home or wear a mask when in public if you are sick to increase chances of other people remaining healthy.
Senior Amelia Ra said when sick she feels “extremely unproductive and unmotivated” which leads her to “have a hard time getting back into the flow of things after.” When illness is going around on campus, Ra tries to eat things that will boost her immune system like “soup or tea with honey.” When she does catch a cold she prioritizes sleep and takes vitamins.
To boost your immune system, it’s key to take note of what you put into your body. Be sure to stay hydrated and incorporate Vitamin C rich foods into your daily meals. Fruits, primarily citrus like oranges, contain high amounts of Vitamin C as well as peppers, tomatoes, and kiwis.
“My least favorite part about getting sick is losing a ton of sleep,” said senior Vivian Tolajian. When she does fall ill, Tolajian takes “zinc supplements and tries not to over exercise.” The senior noted that when a lot of people on campus are under the weather she will “try to wash [her] hands more.”
Getting ample amounts of sleep is also key to ensuring your immune system stays strong. Yale Medicine reports that people who get less than seven hours of sleep are three times more likely to get the common cold. Aim for 7-10 hours of sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule to increase your chances of staying healthy.
“I get sick a lot, and when I miss school, I feel like I fall so behind,” reported junior Alex Becker. When many students on campus are sick, Becker said “I do my best to stay away from them which is hard because at least one of my friends is always sick.” Becker also takes vitamins and tries to consistently work out to keep her immune system strong.
When planning winter activities make sure you dress for the weather, especially in colder climates. Wearing layers such coats, gloves, and hats will help protect you from the wind, rain, and cold. These precautions will prevent inner core temperature from dropping, which can lead impaired immune system functioning.
By following these tips and making small adjustments to your daily routine, you can better protect yourself and those around you from common winter illnesses, ensuring a healthier season for everyone.
