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Tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season

Flu Season
Posted at 7:53 AM, Nov 19, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-19 10:53:12-05

It's always a good idea to do what you can to stay healthy during cold and flu season especially in the midst of a pandemic. Doctor Donald Ford from the Cleveland Clinic says good sleep habits will benefit your immune system.

People who don't get enough sleep are often more likely to get sick he says adults should get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Reducing stress can help boost your immunity as well -- because stress weakens the immune system.

According to Doctor Ford, there aren't any great scientific studies that demonstrate a benefit when it comes to vitamins and immunity.

"The most important thing is to maintain your own health as much as you can, and whether you've got medical conditions that need treatment, make sure that you're taking your medicines as prescribed by your doctor, make sure that you're eating well, make sure above all that you're getting plenty of rest."

Doctor Ford reminds us that it's best to prevent illness in the first place, so your body doesn't ever need to fight it off. Washing your hands is always important, and with covid-19 in the mix, wearing a mask over your nose and mouth, and social distancing is critical.