Last month we spoke about ways to avoid getting the flu this winter, but apart from all the obvious health hygiene tips we covered, there are additional precautions that you can take. Think about athletes that train all year long and can’t afford to get sick. What do they do to keep colds and flu at bay? We’re going to delve into some of the top health tips of athletes. Besides from setting goals and training hard, athletes usually share a few repeatable actions that set them apart from the rest. You’ve heard of “prevention is better than cure”, we’re going to tell you exactly how you can prevent getting sick whether you are training for a marathon or sports event, prevention is always better than cure.
1.) Get a flu vaccine
An effective precaution to take is getting a flu vaccine. A flu shot is a vaccine, which protects against influenza. It is recommend that one gets vaccinated earlier on in the flu season, basically as soon as the vaccine becomes available. The flu shot can decrease the chances of getting the flu by 70 – 90 percent. Unfortunately the flu vaccine does not completely prevent flu in everyone, there is still a chance you could get sick. However, the vaccine can lessen the length and severity of symptoms.
2.) Stay hydrated
We’ve all heard this one. Drinking water helps keep the body strong and ready to fight off cold and flu germs. Keeping hydrated may boost immunity and enable your body to fight off any viruses. As a general rule drinking 8 or more glasses of water a day, even in the winter months is essential for good health.
3.) Exercise
Not only does exercise release endorphins and keep you fit, but it also boosts your immune system. This helps prevent germs making you sick. Exercise is also good for getting rid of extra weight, which is important in overall health. Going for 20-minute walk or run at least 4 times a week can help keep your body fit and healthy.
4.) Eat healthy
It’s important to nourish your body with healthy nutrients to strengthen your immune system. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates are essential for good nutrition and will help build your immune system.
5.) Get plenty of sleep
Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality is related with lowered immune function. Make sure you get plenty of rest. Get a good 7 to 9 hour sleep at night, as sleep plays an important role in boosting immunity. If you’re not the best sleeper, you can try improving your sleep by avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. You may even try drinking milk prior to going to bed and try to relax and unwind your mind.
Being your healthiest self is an important factor in preventing flu and most importantly picturing success to mentally prepare your mind and body for your event. Take vitamins, eat healthy and most importantly take care of yourself. Follow these health habits of champions and strengthen your immunity to fight off any colds or flu during your training periods. Prevention is always better than cure and with these easy and affordable methods anyone can be a health champion.