Fighting Fit

It’s that time of year again, cold and flu season. Germs are everywhere and on everything you touch. You spend your days at work, then off to the gym and you are touching multiple items that will carry germs. Illnesses like the flu and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. What can you do to protect yourself from getting sick? There are some key ways to protect yourself from germs you find at work and at the gym.

AT THE GYM:

Wear Flip-Flops in the Shower
Protect your bare feet from germs and fungus such as athlete’s foot. Wearing flip-flops in the shower will eliminate the direct contact you have with the floor in the shower, sauna and change rooms. Fungal infections can happen anywhere when you have bare feet.

Use Reusable Water Bottles
When you drink from your own reusable water bottle and not the drinking fountain you are eliminating your risk to Norovirus, a highly contagious intestinal virus that can easily be spread through communal water fountains. Be careful not to keep opening and closing the bottle either as you can easily transfer germs from your hands to your mouth.

Disinfect Regularly
Your gym bag can be a great place for germs to hide especially when you think of where you put it. Car floor, change room floor, public washrooms, all great places to pick up germs. Take the time to regularly wash out and disinfect your gym bag. Keep a bottle of disinfectant spray in your car or gym bag that can be used even before the bag enters your house.

Use Your Equipment
Whenever possible, bring your own equipment to use at the gym. An easy one is your own workout mat or yoga mat. Even if you can manage your own kettle bell or bar bells, you’ll be less likely to pick up something from someone else. Be sure to sanitize your equipment as well.

Keep Your Distance
A crowded fitness class can be an easy way to catch the flu. When possible try to keep about 2 arms length away from anyone else. When you head to the cardio or weight equipment, if the gym isn’t too busy, pick a machine that is not right beside someone else.

AT WORK:

Clean and Disinfect
Wipe down your work area often. Pay attention to computer keyboards, desks and telephones. Germs accumulate quickly on and around these areas so you want to make sure they are cleaned often.

Beware of the Office Kitchen
An office kitchen can carry the most germs. Almost everyone goes in there and touches something. Be sure to wash your hands well before and after handling food and touching places like the refrigerator door handle and microwave oven.

Watch out for Those Doors
Door knobs and handles can breed germs. If possible use a tissue or paper towel when you have to open a door. Otherwise, wash hands or use a hand sanitizer after touching door handles.

Washrooms
Another popular spot in the office building for germs is the washroom. Try not to touch anything unnecessarily. Wash hands before you head back to work to prevent the spread of germs from the restroom to other areas of the office.

Shaking Hands
A courteous handshake is part of doing business. Make sure to wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer after this gesture to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid touching your face right after a handshake.

ALL THE TIME:

Wash your hands regularly. The best way to combat germs is to wash your hands after doing any activity. You especially want to make sure you wash your hands before and after you eat.

Avoid touching your face. Any surface can contain germs. You’re hands are always busy touching something. Avoiding touching your face because germs you come in contact with can wind up in the openings of your nose, ears and mouth.

By being aware of your surroundings and what you may be touching, you won’t have to hide out for cold and flu season to stay germ free. The key to staying healthy is continuing with your healthy lifestyle, healthy food, healthy amounts of exercise and definitely washing your hands often.

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Flu Season – How to Protect Yourself

Runny noses, coughing, and that overall “icky” feeling, urgh – the Flu. Flu season may be starting soon and there are many ways to naturally increase your immune system to protect yourself from catching that annoying virus this year.It is important to have a strong and healthy immune system. By keeping up with your workout regime, you are actually helping build a healthy immune system as well. It can also be helpful to add a few things in your daily practices.

Vitamin D
Fall and winter are the times when the probability of getting the flu is higher. This is because of the lack of vitamin D absorption that we get from the sun. Vitamin D regulates the immune system by increasing production of broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptides which destroy the influenza virus. At the same time these peptides prevent the body from manufacturing an abundance of inflammatory cells which suppress the immune system. To increase your Vitamin D naturally (other than the sun) try salmon, sardines and cod liver oil.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C boosts the immune system by increasing the level of antibodies and white cell production. Vitamin C also strengthens the respiratory system by reducing inflammation and increasing collagen, which greatly increases our ability to fight against infections and viruses. Some natural sources of Vitamin C are oranges, grapefruit and sweet red pepper, which actually has twice the Vitamin C content of oranges.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E work in tandem with Vitamin C to build our immune system by reducing inflammation. Vitamin E protects the immune cells by protecting the membrane of the cell. It also increases the protection of lymphocytes called natural killer cells that kill germ and cancer cells and it increases the production of antibodies that eliminate bacteria. Natural ways to add Vitamin E into your diet are avocado, almonds, peanuts, dark leafy vegetables, wheat germ and mango.

Carotenoids
Carotenoids are phytonutrients that are responsible for the bright colors of fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are antioxidants that reduce inflammation by destroying free radicals that damage the cells. The main Carotenoids is Beta Carotene. The body converts Beta Carotene into Vitamin A. Beta Carotene increases immune cell production and protects the mucous membranes and lining of the lungs, which increases the ability to fight infections. Find natural Carotenoids in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and winter squash.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3s are essential for boosting the immune system. They reduce inflammation and protect the integrity of cell structure. Omega 3s also help to dilate the blood vessels, which helps cells to absorb important nutrients. Natural sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids are salmon, cod liver oil and flax oil.

Water
Water is important for healthy cells. Water works as a transport for minerals and vitamins to our cells. Water aids in keeping cells plump allowing them to absorb important nutrients for cell metabolism and proper function.

Exercise
Keeping fit and active is important in keeping the immune system working. Exercise increases blood circulation which is very important. The body needs good blood flow to transport oxygen and nutrients to the cells. Exercise also decreases cortisol levels, helping alleviate stress which then allows the body to produce immune fighting cells.

Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential. Sleep allows your body to rejuvenate cells and helps the immune system function properly. Sleep also keeps cortisol levels down keeping immune cells at a good level and keeping your energy level up.

Other factors that can naturally help protect yourself from the influenza virus are good levels of:

  • Bioflavonoids
  • Zinc
  • Selenium

Decreasing your stress, avoiding sugar, excess alcohol and caffeine is also extremely helpful to protect you from the higher probability of catching the flu.

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