Stay healthy the rest of 2010

Between now and early spring, many people come down with the flu, colds, or other illnesses. Here are some ways to stay healthy and well during this time of year.

1. Wash your hands often. Wash your hands after you use the restroom, before you handle food or before you eat, when you are around sick people, after grocery shopping or shopping at a mall (think about everything you touched while there), or any other time you have touched objects that many others may touch. Use hot, soapy water and wash for 20 seconds.

2. Be physically active. Go for a daily walk, ride a bike, rake leaves, wash your car, or play outside with the family.

3. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. These foods have a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for good health.

4. Get enough sleep. If you are drowsy during the day, try getting more sleep. Sleep allows your body and mind to rest.

5. Cough into a tissue or into your elbow. If you cough into the air or into your hand, you are spreading germs to others.

6. Drink water as your primary drink. Water prevents dehydration and is necessary for many essential body functions.

7. Eat breakfast. Your body needs fuel to stay energized throughout the day so start with a good breakfast. If you aren't very hungry, even a small piece of fruit and yogurt can work.

8. Quit smoking or using tobacco if you do. The health benefits to quitting happen very quickly and are numerous.

9. If you are sick, stay away from others. Continue to wash your hands and clean any surfaces you touch.

10. Manage stress and think positive. A good attitude goes a long way in keeping us healthy. Use stress management techniques that work for you to keep your immune system in tip-top shape.