THINGS YOU CAN DO TO STAY HEALTHY

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO STAY HEALTHY

Eat a well balanced diet:

Even though your schedule is hectic, healthy eating can supply the fuel you need to keep you going as well as the vitamins and nutrients your body uses to fight illness. If you don't feel you are getting a balanced diet consider an ordinary multivitamin.

Get enough sleep:

Young adults need 9-91/2 hours of sleep a night to avoid behaviors associated with sleep deprivation (falling asleep in class, difficulty waking up, inability to concentrate, and depression). Getting enough sleep helps keep you healthy by allowing your metabolism, heart rate and respiration enough time to re-energize you. One study found that sleep can have a significant effect on grades.

Exercise:

Physical activity not only keeps your body in shape, it also helps your mind. Exercise releases endorphin's that calm and relax you, decreasing stress and improving sleep.

Drink plenty of fluids:

To stay well-hydrated drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Drink extra to replace fluid losses with sweating, diarrhea and vomiting. A good indicator of adequate hydration is when your urine is pale yellow to almost clear.

Protect yourself from germs:

Washing your hands often is the best way to stop germs form getting into your body and spreading them to others. Limit contact with sick friends and relatives. Keep and use your own utensils. Practice proper food handling techniques.

Relieve Stress:

Stress busters include exercise, hanging out with friends, hobbies, extracurricular activities, taking a deep breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth and keeping things in perspective.

If you smoke, STOP!:

Smokers are more likely to get more colds, flu, bronchitis and pneumonia.

WHAT SHOULD I KEEP IN MY MEDICINE CABINET?

Basic first aid items:

• Hydrogen Peroxide (to cleanse wounds)
• Triple antibiotic ointment (to protect wound from infection)
• Assorted bandaids (to cover and protect wounds)
• Thermometer (not glass)

Over the counter medications for:

Pain relief and fever reduction

• Acetaminophen (ie. Tylenol etc.)*
• Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil etc.)*

Nasal congestion

• Pseudoephedrine (ie. Sudafed/Dimetapp etc.)*

Cough

• Guaifenesin (ie. Robitussin/Vicks 44 etc.)*
• Expectorants (DM) help loosen chest congestion
• Suppressants quiet a dry hacking cough.

Stomach distress/diarrhea

• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)*
• Loperamide  (Imodium)

*We have listed some common brand names for your recognition, but pharmacy and generic brand equivalents are often less expensive and as effective.

*As with all medications use them properly read the label thoroughly. Know what the medication is for, the usual dosage, warnings (when to stop taking the medicine; when to see a doctor; possible side effects), and the expiration date.