Fall is approaching which can only mean one thing – it’s back to school season and time to get back into an everyday routine. With that, comes one of the biggest headaches most parents have- germs coming home with their kids. Whether it’s kids not realizing to cover their mouths when they cough or from sharing un-sanitized toys, illness and infection can be a big concern. Especially when it can cause children to miss classes.
While it’s nearly impossible to avoid germs, there are steps you can take to keep your entire family healthy throughout the school year.
1. Get plenty of sleep
Sleep is one of the most important things to keep your body healthy. With summer ending and school, starting make sure to implement bedtimes so that everyone gets enough sleep.
Children should get around 9 to 13 hours, adults 7 to 9. Getting enough sleep helps keep the immune system working so it can ward off anything incoming illnesses.
2. Start the day with breakfast
Before heading out the door make sure everyone is properly fueled with healthy foods. It is ideal to start the day with protein and fiber to keep you energized.
Oatmeal is one of my all time favorites. It is rich in fiber and contains beta glucans which help activate the immune system, and you switch it up by adding your favorite fruit.
3. Kill germs quickly
Hide portable hand sanitizer or moist wipes in kids backpacks so when they end up in a “sticky” situation, they can easily clean themselves up and rid their hands of bacteria.
When kids get home from school start teaching good practices like washing hands and storing backpacks in a designated area so that germs are not spread throughout the house.
Make sure to wipe down all surfaces, countertops, and tables at home when possible. Bacteria can stick to your kitchen countertops which can then be spread throughout the family.
4. Exercise to boost your immune system
Find ways to incorporate 30 minutes of exercise each day, whether it be playing a sport or walking the dog. Exercise promotes circulation and will help get everyone ready for a good night’s sleep. It can also help boost the immune system.
5. Take a multivitamin
For dinner, add immune boosting vitamins and minerals to the family dish or salad dressing, such as Mushroom Matrix Immune mushroom powder, so the whole family can stay battle ready! Mushroom Matrix is unflavored and supports immune health for the whole family.
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Staying proactive about cleanliness and disease prevention can help you keep your family healthy throughout the school year. Boosting the immune system can prevent absences from school, missed birthday parties and high medical bills. Helping your family stay away from germs and bacteria is a surefire way to make this school year the best one yet.
About the Author:
Sandra Carter, MPH, PH.D., and founder of Mushroom Matrix is no stranger to helping people achieve optimal health and wellbeing through good daily habits and nutrition. She has held roles in every department of the health industry from sponsored research to director of corporate and community programs to the hospital administrator.
