Six tips for avoiding getting sick when the temperature drops

When the temperatures drop, it increases your chances of getting a cold or the flu. It’s not the cold weather that gives you the sniffles, but how your body reacts to the change of weather is what causes sickness.

Thankfully, you can boost your immunity and keep the flu at bay by following these simple tips.

Wipe Surfaces Diligently

If germs can transfer up to eight feet in the air, then they must also be able to live on surfaces. Think about all the things that you and others touch in your home each day. Your remotes, computer keyboard, door handles, microwave, oven controls, and the washing machine must have a plethora of germs lingering on the surface.

Studies show that the Rhinovirus can live for up to two days on an object. If a member of your family is sniffling, then make sure to wipe down everything they touch. It will keep colds from spreading, and it can wipe away germs that are just waiting to attack.

Pack in The Protein

Did you know that protein can help to improve your immune system? A study was conducted by the Journal of Infectious Diseases that found this astounding fact. People who consumed things like eggs, peanut butter, quinoa, dairy, fish, and meat are 80 percent less likely to get the flu. Your diet affects so much about your overall health, so you can control your immunity by giving it a boost with a daily protein punch. Something as simple as eating the right foods can keep sickness at bay.

Add Moisture into The Air

Most people don’t venture outside when it’s cold. Staying inside breeds germs because the humidity is low, and it allows bacteria to remain airborne. When you’re outside, the bacteria fall to the ground and disburses. How can you change this and avoid getting sick this year? Well, you should invest in a humidifier. It will help to keep moisture in the air, and your skin won’t crack from dryness either. A whole-house system is the best option for the cold weather.

Get Plenty of Vitamin D

Studies have shown that more people are Vitamin D deficient than ever before. Did you know that you are 70 percent less likely to get sick when your body is at sufficient levels? During the summer months, it’s easier to get ample amounts of this vitamin from the sunshine, but during the winter, no one wants to be out in the cold air. You have a couple of options to ensure you get the required amount.

Sunlamps are an excellent option to increase Vitamin D levels, which will also improve your mood. You simply plug in this little light and go about your business. It only takes a few minutes each day to improve your health. If you’re not going to sit still and use a lamp, then you should consider taking a supplement. You need about 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily to make a difference in your immunity. Also, it doesn’t hurt to add foods that are fortified with this vitamin, either.

Keep an Appropriate Distance from Others

If you want to avoid getting sick, then keep at least two arms lengths from people during the winter. Germs are flying all around during the cold season, especially when someone is sick. Did you know that you can breathe in infectious flu-containing particles from as much as eight feet away? It’s best to keep hand sanitizer with you and even a facial mask if you’re in an area contaminated by lots of sick folks. If you don’t want to be down for the count, then take the proper precautions.

Get Sufficient Amounts of Sleep

Sleep is the body’s way of restoring and healing. When you are sleep deprived, your body is more likely to get sick than someone who has had sufficient amounts of rest. It’s because your sleep helps to build immunity.

It sounds crazy, but a study at the University of California proved this to be true. The more rest you get, the healthier you will be. Even if you’re busy during the holidays and preparing for other festivities that occur during the winter, make sure you get enough shuteye for your health’s sake.

The cold air brings with it the concern of getting sick. Thankfully, you can be proactive this season and ensure you and your family remains healthy.

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