Strategies for Preventing Winter Illness
Diet
Not too much, not too little
Enough calories
Proteins: most children and adults function better with some protein at each meal
Yes…5 fruits and vegetable portions daily really seem to make a difference
Avoid simple sugars and carbohydrates as much as possible, go for the complex carbohydrates
Exercise
There is more vulnerability to illness in the period right after very intense exercise. It is important to take extra care then, maintaining hydration, electrolytes, blood sugar and sufficient rest.
Moderate regular exercise generally enhances immune function
Hygiene
Avoid sick people, utilize immune support around crowds and parties
Wash hands, face, around eyes and nose
Nasal rinses (avoid re-infection with used spray bottles)
Break hand to mouth, nose, eye habits (nail biting, nose picking, finger sucking)
Clean teeth, gums, braces and mouth gear
Replace tooth brushes regularly and clean their containers
Wash baby bottles, cups, water bottles after each use
Home
Clean or vacuum furnace ducts. Eliminate smoke of all sorts, e.g wood stove, incense
Change furnace filters regularly in winter (avoid CO poisoning)
Clean stuffed animals and bedding (dust collectors in the bed)
Keep pet feces and bowls away from crawling children Eliminate mold
Humidity of about 45% is suggested as ideal
Clean faucets, doorknobs, telephone receivers, keyboards in public places
Rest
Sleep at least 7-8 hours nightly
Relaxation: breaking long hours of contraction to decrease tension and negative thinking Deep expansive breaths throughout the day (away from the sick people, of course)
Habits of thought: vital, strengthening thoughts. Fun, laughter
Nobel Prize winners live longer – why?
Regular down time
Pools and health clubs, locker rooms, indoor skaters, etc.
Get warm and dry and sealed up before going back out into the cold
Use disinfectant nasal saline spray before and after the pool
Wear shower footwear
Rinks are cold and damp: use warming herbs before and afterwards (ginger, garlic, cayenne, cinnamon)
Note for hockey players: keep the mold out of the gear