As the winter months are in full bloom, the weather is dropping, and oftentimes along with it, our health. To prevent becoming ill, you need to keep your immune system strong. In order to have a strong and high functioning immune system, you need to take care of your body. There are some very simple and overlooked ways to ensure your body stays healthy this year that people often do not do. As you practice these safe health measures, not only will your health improve, but your ability to fight off sickness, mental health, focus and bodily functions will all significantly be improved.
The Center for Disease Control also known as the CDC is persistent on a common short list of measures to be taken to ensure overall health and a stronger immune system. This set of guidelines includes eating very balanced and healthy diets, to exercise frequently, to sleep a sufficient amount of hours for your age and to try your best to cut out substances such as alcohol and tobacco products. If you tend to your body with food, water, rest, exercise, etc. your immune system will be much more effective at fighting off illness.
According to healthline.com, “11,000 people, taking 1000-2000 mg. Vitamin C per day reduced the duration of colds by 8% in adults and 14% in children.” Supplements can be beneficial to those who do not get a full and sufficient amount of the vitamins and minerals they need to keep their brain and body functioning at peak performance levels. A recommended multivitamin b Miamiherald.com is “Organixx Multi-vita-maxx” the best multivitamin for immunity.
Many common colds and flu related illnesses occur during this time of the year, especially in a high risk area for infection like a high school. That being said FMHS students need to be particularly careful when illness is spreading throughout the building as they are much more susceptible for catching an illness. As of February, many major illnesses have passed between Fruita students and sports teams within the school, and students must not only care for their bodies and fuel them well for general health, but they must know how to keep their lifestyle sanitary and clean to ensure that if they have been exposed to illness, they can take as many preventative measures possible to ensure they stay safe and healthy.
The CDC recommends that in the attempt to reduce the chances of contracting a cold, you must wash your hands very frequently (for 20 seconds or more), avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, getting adequate rest, and staying away from those who are sick. Many telltale signs of illness in schools from germs are runny nose, fever, cough, headaches, and body aches. We can easily take care of ourselves before and after exposure to illness with good sanitary measures.
As high schoolers, it can be tempting to share food and drinks with your friends but just one mistake can spread illness around the school. To prevent the spread and contraction of illness, make sure to stay up on your hydration and dietary needs, and care for your body.