FLU Season a collison course: how to stay healthy
It all starts with a cough. Then suddenly a trojan horse filled with symptoms – fevers, fatiques, sneezing, conjestion, chills, and a week of runny noses – overwhelm your body and take your immune system hostage. Next thing you know, your class of 30 dwindles down to a class of 15. So how could one avoid, the grasps of the flu? Here are a few tips.
- Get sleep
One helpful tip is to adopt a consistent sleep schedule. Although this may be difficult to maintain as burntout, overworked high school students, small adjustments such as limiting your screen time can be effective. Moreover, you could also set a schedule for yourself to study earlier and gradually rather than cramming the night before. It would also be beneficial to set some attainable goals for yourself so you can stay on track. Aiyanna Reed(11) states that “setting the goal of sleeping at 10 o’clock has really helped me become more energetic and healthy.” Going to sleep early is also essential for a clear mind, and energetic day–since if you get less sleep the worse you’ll do the next day.
- Be physically active
Further, the importance of physical activity may be seem trivial when there is a 400 word essay looming over you; however, as we continue to battle the waves of germs it proves essential. Physical activities include going to the gym, a short walk, running up and down the stairs, walking the dog, yoga, or even just going to the park to get some fresh air. Being physically fit not only helps you maintain a healthy lifestyle, but also clears your mind and makes you refreshed. So if you are stuck on a homework assignment, or doom scrolling on your phone, it may be best to opt for a walk.
- Eat a balanced diet–drink plenty of water
Additionally maintaining a balanced diet is essential to fighting the flu this season. Eating fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C are vital to keep your immune system stron, supporting this Preston Oh states that “Last night I ate 3 oranges to prevent myself from getting sick.” Some ways you can incorporate fruits and vegetables into your lifestyle are fruit juices, frozen vegetables, or just having an apple a day to keep the doctor away.
- Practicals: avoid touching your face, wash hands, avoid people with symptoms and sharing
Lastly, a few things that are non negotiable when avoiding the flu is to wash your hands constantly. The CDC reccomends to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds as long as it would take to sing the Happy Birthday song. Also it is essential to wash your hands and avoid people who are showing symptoms of illness. As well as it is important to avoid touching your eyes and face.
As we continue to brave the battle against the waves of sneezes and abscenese, it is essential to persist in these practices. While these practices may be difficult to consistently maintain as highschoolers; it is vital to consider these in order to stay physically healthy.
