It's More Than Just an Apple a Day
By Amy Ziff, Editor-at-Large
December 1, 2004
With all the recent talk about the flu vaccine being in short supply, I thought it would be worth finding out what the experts suggest we do to avoid getting sick. Not surprisingly, everyone seems to agree that prevention is the best medicine. However, prevention means more than an apple a day. The following are some tips you may not have heard before to help take good care of yourself and ward off the season's worst germs.
For starters, The Center for Disease Control (CDC) says we should avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home when we are sick ourselves. Like your mom taught you, always cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands often! The CDC also recommends not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, since that is a prime way to catch and spread germs.
To delve a little deeper, I consulted with Dr. Anna Marie, the health specialist for The Weather Channel who also hosts the syndicated, better living show "Your Life." Dr. Marie says that the first step to good health is good hygiene. In addition to what the CDC says, she suggests that you avoid crowded places and contact with those who look unwell, as well as not share eating utensils, beverages, towels, and bedding
Dr. Anna Marie takes prevention to a higher level than most. She advocates a healthy lifestyle for the healthy traveler. According to her, there are some definite ways we can boost our immune systems. With a little discipline, this may do a whole lot more than just keep us healthy on the road!
Tips for travelers who want to boost the immune system include:
- Exercise three to five times a week for approximately 30 minutes. Regular exercise is important for keeping your body fit and healthy.
- Eat a balanced diet. Water is also extremely important; you should be drinking at least six to eight glasses a day.
- Get plenty of sleep--it can help reduce stress and boost your immunity against common ailments.
- If possible, get an influenza vaccine at least one to two weeks before departure.
- See your doctor at least two weeks prior to travel and talk to him/her about whatever vaccinations may be required if you’re traveling outside the country. Additionally, be sure to inquire about any special health concerns related to the place you are going.
- Healthy travel is the first step towards happy travel, and I wish you both.
For more information from Dr. Anna Marie visit: www.yourlifetv.com.
For the most recent travel news check out Amy Ziff's Travel Tips from AtoZ at www.travelocity.com/atoz. If you have a question or topic you would like me to cover in a future column, please e-mail Amy Ziff at ask.amy@travelocity.com ask.amy@travelocity.com. Come back monthly to see if your question has been answered.
|
|
|
