For as long as I can remember, my mom has been obsessed with everything health, and staying healthy has always been a priority in my household. Most homes have a medicine cabinet for their family in case someone feels under the weather, but not at my house. We arguably have a vitamin pantry with a minuscule section consisting of essential over-the-counter medicines like Advil and NyQuil.
Going into my freshman year at Florida State University, my mom gifted me a plethora of vitamins to take every day. I failed to take vitamins seriously at the beginning of the semester. However, this quickly changed when my peers started to get sick. In an attempt to stay healthy, I began to regularly take my vitamins and implement healthy habits in my daily routine. I didn’t realize it then, but I now recognize these little changes saved my immune system. As someone who survived freshman year without getting the flu, I give you my tips for staying healthy all semester long.Â
- Sleep
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While college students are pros at having inconsistent sleep habits, getting adequate sleep is fundamental for health. With the demands of college life, it can be nearly impossible to earn the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night. It’s beneficial to take the time to create a routine to signal your body that it’s time to go to sleep. A way to do this could be staying off your phone before bed, stretching your body after a long day and reading to wind down. Naps are also helpful to feel rested, but it is important that you do not default to naps as a replacement for sufficient sleep.
- Vitamin C
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When people think of health and immunity, one of the first vitamins that come to mind is Vitamin C. It’s an essential antioxidant that the body needs to keep you strong and healthy. Vitamin C can be consumed in various ways, but I advise that you do not rely on oranges and mimosas for your daily dose of Vitamin C. I recommend taking a Vitamin C supplement each day to stay healthy. If I start to feel unwell, my favorite way to combat sickness early on is by drinking a packet of Emergen C mixed in water. Emergen C not only contains Vitamin C but also other essential nutrients like Vitamin B6, Magnesium and Zinc.
- Stress Management
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College can be a stressful environment and feeling overwhelmed at times can be inevitable. Unfortunately, stress takes a toll on our immune systems. Even though you might not be able to avoid stress, it’s useful to integrate stress management techniques into your routine to cope. Taking breaks from the source of your stress can help immensely. Some things you could do to take a break include going on a walk, journaling, listening to calming music or calling a friend. These activities can help tremendously, but if you need extra support, I recommend taking Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). GABA is a supplement known for producing a calming effect and can aid in controlling stress and anxiety.
- Vitamin D
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Vitamin D is widely known as the vitamin that comes from the sun. Spending time outside is the easiest way to obtain Vitamin D, but colder weather is creeping right around the corner. Since sunlight helps produce Vitamin D, less sun during the winter months can lead to a Vitamin D deficiency. A deficiency in Vitamin D can cause symptoms of fatigue, poor sleep, muscle weakness and mood changes. Have you ever heard of the term seasonal depression? Those who experience seasonal depression most likely have a Vitamin D deficiency. The easiest way to obtain Vitamin D during the cooler months is by eating foods such as fatty fish, eggs and milk or by taking Vitamin D capsules.
- Air Purifiers
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Last but certainly not least, investing in a good air purifier can save your lungs and sinuses. Dorm rooms and apartment buildings accumulate large amounts of dust that could be contributing to making you feel sluggish and sick. Air purifiers can build your immunity by lowering different pollutants that may be lingering in the air.
In essence, staying healthy in a college environment can be challenging but it’s not impossible. Investing in your health is the best way to steer clear of any unwanted illnesses and listening to your body can create an overall healthier and happier you.
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