Finish the Year Off Right!
December 20, 2016
Texas MedClinic stresses prevention as the best way to protect against the variety of illnesses passed around throughout the holiday season. Doctors at Texas MedClinic remind patients to continue routine hygiene practices, to wipe down germs and dust, to practice self-care with mild illness and to visit a clinic as soon as symptoms become moderately uncomfortable to prevent severe illness, but what can you do for yourself in defense? Wouldn’t it be nice to finish the year off right and avoid unwanted illnesses as you enter into Christmas and New Year’s?
Cooler weather encourages viruses to grow and can allow germs to easily infect humans, especially children, the elderly, and those affected by chronic illnesses. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), or the common cold, are just one of many in-season illnesses. They are viral and air-borne meaning they can easily be transferred among humans. Other winter season diseases include influenza, pneumonia, measles, chickenpox, and diarrhea.
Below is a list of tips to encourage good health this month as we head into 2017:
Manage your stress. Engage in activities that promote peace and relaxation as often as possible.
Wear weather-appropriate clothes. Children and elders, especially, should wear layered clothes or jackets to protect them from the cold. Gloves and scarves are helpful accessories. Socks and shoes should protect the feet.
Eat a healthy diet. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and nuts for fiber and protein. Hot soups like chicken soup or chowder help warm the body and fight diseases. A well-balanced diet will help keep your body healthy and fight infection.
Take vitamins. Intake of vitamins and antioxidants help strengthen the body and ward off winter diseases.
Get sweaty, exercise daily, and drink plenty of water. Exercising helps warm the body and fight the cold weather. Drink lots of water to replenish the body’s lost liquid.
Maintain a healthy hygiene and keep the surroundings clean. Avoid cross contamination by cleaning and sanitizing common touch-points. Use safe but effective cleaning and sanitizing products. Avoid sharing utensils.
The goal is to be healthy and stay that way through the holidays. Do your part and encourage those around you to do the same! Wishing you a happy, healthy end to 2016!
