Spring Break
Laugh at colds and flu this season
Betsy Baity, RN, BSN
Issue date: 10/16/03 Section: Opinion
- Page 1 of 1
With cold and flu season just around the corner, many students are asking, "How can I keep from getting sick?"
A cold or the flu can put a real dent in your grade point average. Try these tips to keep you well through the semester and well into the holidays.
The best defense against colds and the flu is to take care of your body.
* Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will supply your body with vitamin C and antioxidants to boost your immune system.
* Exercise can also keep your body functioning at its best.
* Avoid those things that rob your body of immune boosting nutrients such as alcohol and nicotine.
* Stress relieving activities and at least eight hours of sleep will also contribute to a stronger immune system.
Another way to stay well is to avoid sick people. This doesn't mean that you have to lock yourself in your dorm room or wear a biohazard suit to class. Just avoid being in the line of fire when someone coughs or sneezes.
Remember to do your friends a favor.
If you are sick, stay home and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Avoid handling tissues used by others and wash your hands frequently. Avoid touching your nose and eyes with your fingers since these are prime access points for germs.
Last, and probably the easiest way to prevent a cold or the flu is to smile.
A study done at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh revealed that people with more positive emotions are less likely to develop colds. Our mental health is linked with our physical health. Staying calm, relaxed and being happy can keep us well.
I guess our mothers were right - laughter really is the best medicine.
Betsy Baity is an adjunct faculty member for the GWU School of Nursing and a graduate student in the Master's of Nursing program. She can be reached at x3983 for more information.
A cold or the flu can put a real dent in your grade point average. Try these tips to keep you well through the semester and well into the holidays.
The best defense against colds and the flu is to take care of your body.
* Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will supply your body with vitamin C and antioxidants to boost your immune system.
* Exercise can also keep your body functioning at its best.
* Avoid those things that rob your body of immune boosting nutrients such as alcohol and nicotine.
* Stress relieving activities and at least eight hours of sleep will also contribute to a stronger immune system.
Another way to stay well is to avoid sick people. This doesn't mean that you have to lock yourself in your dorm room or wear a biohazard suit to class. Just avoid being in the line of fire when someone coughs or sneezes.
Remember to do your friends a favor.
If you are sick, stay home and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Avoid handling tissues used by others and wash your hands frequently. Avoid touching your nose and eyes with your fingers since these are prime access points for germs.
Last, and probably the easiest way to prevent a cold or the flu is to smile.
A study done at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh revealed that people with more positive emotions are less likely to develop colds. Our mental health is linked with our physical health. Staying calm, relaxed and being happy can keep us well.
I guess our mothers were right - laughter really is the best medicine.
Betsy Baity is an adjunct faculty member for the GWU School of Nursing and a graduate student in the Master's of Nursing program. She can be reached at x3983 for more information.