Staying Healthy: Back-to-School

Classes are back in session and football season is about to kick-off. With so much excitement, it is easy to forget about the simple things that will help keep us healthy and well this semester.

The first, and most obvious, bit of advice for avoiding the cold and flu is that you wash your hands with soap and warm water regularly! You can also use hand sanitizer, as long as you rub it until it is dry. Be sure to keep your hands away from your nose and mouth - they are germ factories. It is also a good idea to regularly disinfect your most frequently used items (pens, phone, keyboard, mouse, doorknobs, ear buds, etc.). Rubbing alcohol works well for this.

Next, get your flu shot! This is especially important for those who have respiratory issues. Think of it as insurance, not a guarantee. It's always better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it!

The best way to keep your immune system at its finest is to eat healthy, exercise regularly, and sleep. Physical activity is an excellent plus during this season, as it works in a number of ways to improve your immune response, your mood, your sleep, your energy and your appearance. Even minimal amounts each day can have a major impact on your health and wellness. Shoot for 10 minute bursts, if time is an issue; otherwise, 45-60 minutes on most days of the week, is ideal.

While we know that vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system, taking high doses of vitamin C does not prevent sickness. Be consistent with your routine and shoot for 100% of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) by taking a multivitamin, Vitamin C supplement, or eating foods high in Vitamin C. A few examples of foods containing vitamin C include red berries, kiwi, red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and juices made from grapefruit and orange.

Prevention is the key. Do the basics -- eat right, sleep right, and exercise, wash your hands, and get a flu shot. These will help to not only reduce your chances of getting a cold or flu this season but also stay healthy year-round.

FACT
In families with children in school, the number of colds per child can be as high as 12 a year. Adults average about two to four colds a year, with higher incidence in women.

For more information about staying healthy visit the Student Health Center's website http://cchs.ua.edu/shc.