Angie @ Kids Matter
We have officially moved into cold weather and with the cold, comes the season of germs and being stuck inside. Winter has its attributes, like snowmen, hot chocolate and snuggling with the kids to watch movies, but it also has its downside. With the onset of winter, comes germs and with the family spending more time inside, those germs can spread quickly!
Full disclosure: I am not a medical professional (I don't even play one on TV), but these are some suggestions for keeping healthy. Please check with your health care provider about your personal case.
Prevention:
1) Always get a good night of sleep. Sleep keeps your immune system healthy.
2) Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Try to get most of your vitamins through foods.
3) Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. If there ever was a time to sing the Happy Birthday song to be sure you are washing your hands long enough, winter is that time! Be sure the kids are using enough soap and they are washing between the fingers, on the back and the front of the hands.
4) Wash the items we touch on a daily basis. These items include door knobs, phones, light switches and sink handles.
5) Cough into your arm or sleeve, not into your hands.
6) Run a humidifier.
7) Drink hot liquids like teas or hot chocolates to soothe a throat. You can also add honey to your hot tea to soothe your throat even further.
8) Be sure you are getting enough Vitamin C.
Remedies:
1) Be sure you are staying hydrated. Drink lots of fluids. In my home, this usually means Sprite. We normally drink lots of water, but I offer Sprite when my son is sick. It is so bubbly that it can make throats feel better and it soothes upset bellies.
2) Eat homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.
3) Get lots of rest. This is the perfect time to lay on the couch, snuggled under a blanket. Your body needs time to heal. Do not push yourself too hard.
4) Sleep with an extra pillow to elevate your head. This will assist with any drainage issues.
5) Take a steamy shower. This will not only release kinks and body aches, but it will also help to open your sinuses.
6) Know when to see a Doctor. A cold cannot be treated, but the flu requires treatment.
7) Realize that there are times your body is fighting something and you have to let it fight. Don't be too quick to treat every little symptom. Your body is an efficient machine, allow it to work.
8) Some times you can put a damp wash cloth in the freezer for a short period and then rest it across your eyes. This can relieve your sinus pressure for a short while.
Take care of yourself and try to avoid unnecessary contact with people that you know are sick.
Take care of yourself and try to avoid unnecessary contact with people that you know are sick.
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