Stay Healthy this School Year!

Being around thousands of other students really raises your chances of getting sick. Classrooms and other school facilities are home to the millions of germs that students leave behind, so coming down with the flu almost seems inevitable. That doesn’t mean you should let it happen, though. While it is easy to get sick, it’s even easier to keep yourself healthy!

Vitamin C goodies.

Take your vitamins. It may seem silly to think that those tiny tablets can make a difference, but they really do. Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C are especially important because they boost your metabolism and build up your defenses. Whether you’re trying to avoid a cold or recovering from one, they are equally useful. Vitamin C will keep you feeling alive and Vitamin B12 will give you the energy you need. However, if you’re bad about remembering to take vitamins, there are some great alternatives! Tomatoes, Oranges, and other acidic fruits are delicious and excellent sources of Vitamin C. And as far as B12 goes, lean meats and seafood will provide you with what you need.

Hand sanitizer. This one is really obvious but I feel like I need to highlight it. Although you can find hand sanitizer basically everywhere you go now, it’s still a really, really good idea to carry a tiny bottle with you. The fact that some of them smell great and come in the form of hand lotion is a plus, too.

A water-bottle friendly fountain!

Wipe down gym equipment. If you’re visiting the gym make sure to wipe down the machines BEFORE and AFTER you use them.  I used to jump on machines without thinking about it, but just because you are responsible enough to clean up after yourself does not mean that everyone else is the same. This being said, if you are sick, it’s better to skip the gym for a few days. Rest up and keep yourself and everyone else safe. Don’t adopt other people’s germs and don’t pass yours on to them either. It’s a win-win!

Beware of drinking fountains. It’s better not to think about how many people use water fountains, but the truth is that some people get way too comfortable using those things. There are some cool fountains that are equipped with a spout for water bottles now, so always look for those first. If none are available, just make sure to run the water for a few seconds before taking a sip and you’re good to go.

Tequila. Believe it or not, a shot of tequila can do wonders for a sore throat. The alcohol helps kill the bacteria in your throat and provides a soothing effect. (This does not mean “Get drunk.” The only thing worse than being sick is being sick and hungover.)

Don’t stress. A lot of students get sick around this time of the year and I’m sure stress has a lot to do with it. It is no wonder that almost everyone is coughing up a storm around exam time. With tons of work and studying to do, it’s easy to let our defenses down. Stressing out only weakens your immune system and makes you more prone to catching a cold. So, catch a movie, take a long bath, exercise, and eat some ice cream every now and then. If you keep yourself happy, your body will be happy.