Winter season is just around the corner, and with it, the risk of catching a cold grows higher. Although it might be impossible to completely avoid colds, there are certain things you can do to stay healthy and reduce your chances of getting sick.

Here are 10 easy ways to stay healthy and avoid colds.

1. Wash your hands frequently

One of the best ways to avoid colds is by washing your hands frequently. You can pick up cold viruses easily by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as doorknobs, countertops, or keyboards.

Therefore, make sure to wash your hands properly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds frequently, especially before meals, after touching public surfaces, and after using the bathroom.

2. Get enough sleep

Studies show that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to catch colds. Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night, while children need 10 or more hours.

A regular sleep schedule and good sleep habits, such as avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, can help you get better sleep and boost your immune system.

3. Exercise regularly

Exercise not only helps you maintain a healthy weight, but it can also boost your immune system. Moderate exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week can improve your circulation, decrease stress, and reduce your risk of catching a cold.

Choose an exercise that you enjoy, such as walking, jogging, or swimming, and make it a part of your routine.

4. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help you stay healthy and avoid colds.

Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and beta-carotene, are essential for a healthy immune system. Incorporate more citrus fruits, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fish in your diet to boost your immunity.

5. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough fluids is important for staying healthy and avoiding colds. Water is the best choice, but you can also drink herbal tea, green tea, or hot water with lemon to get extra antioxidants and soothe your throat.

Avoid sugary drinks or those with caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and weaken your immune system.

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6. Cover your nose and mouth

When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands. This can help prevent the spread of cold viruses to others and reduce your exposure to the virus.

Make sure to dispose of tissues properly and wash your hands afterwards.

7. Avoid close contact with sick people

If you know someone who is sick, try to avoid close contact with them until they feel better. Cold viruses can spread easily through physical contact or respiratory droplets, so keep a distance if possible.

If you are the one who is sick, stay home until you feel better to avoid spreading the virus to others.

8. Clean and disinfect surfaces often

Viruses can live on surfaces, such as doorknobs, phones, or keyboards, for several hours or even days. Therefore, it’s important to clean and disinfect these surfaces often, especially if someone in your household is sick.

Use a disinfectant spray or wipe to kill the germs and viruses.

9. Get vaccinated

Vaccines can help protect you from certain cold viruses, such as the flu. Make sure to get vaccinated every year, especially if you are at a higher risk of complications.

Talk to your healthcare provider to see which vaccines are recommended based on your age, health status, and other factors.

10. Reduce stress

Stress can weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to colds. Therefore, it’s important to find ways to reduce stress in your life, such as through relaxation techniques, meditation, or hobbies.

Take breaks when needed, and make time for activities that bring you joy and peace.

Conclusion

Staying healthy and avoiding colds is possible by following these 10 easy ways. They are simple yet effective methods that can help you boost your immune system and reduce your risk of catching a cold.

Remember to wash your hands frequently, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, cover your nose and mouth, avoid close contact with sick people, clean and disinfect surfaces often, get vaccinated, and reduce stress. By doing so, you can enjoy the winter season without worrying about the common cold.