Keeping your family healthy this fall

Flu season is just around the corner. While you can’t completely prevent your loved ones or yourself from getting sick during the fall and winter months, you can take steps to reduce the number of times your family is affected by illness:

Wash your hands. Many people don’t wash their hands often enough throughout the day, and most don’t spend enough time to get their hands really clean. Did you know studies show that you must wash your hands for at least 20 seconds to remove enough germs to prevent sickness? Insist that everyone take the time to wash their hands before snacks and meals. Here’s a tip to help children make it to the 20-second mark — have them sing “Happy Birthday” to themselves twice before rinsing the soap from their hands.

Get plenty of sleep. Numerous studies have shown that too little sleep can leave you vulnerable to illness. But infants, toddlers, school-aged children, teenagers and adults each have their own needs. This guide can help you make sure each family member is getting enough sleep.

Eat healthy. Make sure you’re serving and eating a well-balanced diet. Eat breakfast for a strong start to the day, and include plenty of fruits and vegetables as snacks and meals. And don’t forget to drink enough water.

Exercise daily. Studies show that any amount of exercise has health benefits. Don’t let the change in weather stop you! Find a way to fit in some amount of physical activity each day.

Consider a flu shot. Flu season is almost here. A flu shot for the entire family could help reduce the likelihood and/or reduce the severity of symptoms of the flu.