Four ways to ward off sickness

With busy class schedules, multiple assignments and work, it’s essential to always feel your best. There’s never a good time to come down with an illness. When cold and flu season rolls around, you’re left on the couch clutching Kleenex and DayQuil, wondering when you’ll get the energy to finish that paper and study for the upcoming big exam. If you’ve been lucky enough to not be hit with sickness this season, there are things you can do to keep the flu bug away and keep your immune system at its best.

Keep hand sanitizer handy

Whether you’re taking a quick shopping trip or surrounded by coughing co-workers on a daily basis, hand sanitizer can work to ward off those illnesses that may be hanging out around you. When you can’t get to a sink and soap, hand sanitizer is there to save the day. According to Health Guidance, the ethyl alcohol present in hand sanitizers has proven to be an excellent germ killer. So next time you’re seated next to sneezing, you’ll be glad you have your hand sanitizer at the ready.

Consider the flu shot

Alright, we know shots aren’t exactly something people get psyched about. However, your immune system will thank you for doing so. When you’re in close contact with people, especially during flu season, it’s much easier to catch the bug. A flu shot can help ward off this unwanted sickness.

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone older than six months old be vaccinated for influenza,” explained CNN. “Get your flu vaccine to reduce chances of getting sick.”

Up your fruit and veggie intake

By getting more greens and fruits into your diet, you could be helping to fight off sickness. Fruits and veggies are full of vitamins and antioxidants that help keep your body healthy.

“What your body needs are phytochemicals that contain natural chemicals that will give vitamin supplements and the vitamins you consume in foods a supercharged boost,” explained College magazine.

When you’re hungry for a snack, reach for some carrots or an apple for a healthy snack that will give your immune system a boost.

Get more sleep

By catching more z’s each day, you’ll be doing your body a favor and may be less likely to catch what’s going around. When you’re stressed out with classes and everyday life in general, cortisol – a hormone that responds to stress – goes into effect and lowers immunity, and makes you more likely to get sick, according to CNN. The source recommended getting more sleep and staying as hydrated as possible to flush your system of unwanted bugs.