Reduce Germs to Stay Healthy Year Round

(ARA) - Germs are prevalent everywhere, from surfaces we touch, to the hands we shake, making us susceptible to sickness all year round. So how can we create a lifestyle that limits germs and helps keep us healthy?

No one likes being sick, and the best way to help stay healthy is to care for your body and limit the amount of germs you come in contact with. Although getting rid of 100 percent of germs isn't an option, there are some simple steps we can all take to create a healthier world for ourselves and our families.

* Hand Hygiene
One of the most common ways to transfer germs is through direct contact. For example, someone sneezes and touches the phone that you then use. According to a recent survey by Vicks, almost half (49 percent) of Americans sheepishly admit to not washing their hands regularly after sneezing into them. This opens the door for transfer of germs that could make you sick.

Hand sanitizers are a convenient option for helping keep hands clean and germ free. For example, you can use Vicks Early Defense Foaming Hand Sanitizer, which kills 99.9 percent of germs. It helps protect against new germs for up to three hours after use (under laboratory conditions). Keep hand sanitizer at your desk, in your home, and even in your purse or bag so you can use it when soap and water are not readily available.

* Keep it Clean
The kitchen can be a haven for germs and bacteria to thrive. Old dishrags only spread germs around. Consider using a new dishrag each time you wipe your countertops or wash dishes. Another option is disposable wipes that are meant for one-time use. Be particularly careful when handling raw meats, which can spread the very dangerous E. coli bacteria. Replace wooden utensils and any items with cracks as they are an ideal place for bacteria to hide.

* Eat Healthy the Right Way
Drinking fluids is something everyone should do and water is the best option because it flushes the system of toxins as it hydrates you. Eat balanced meals that include fruits and vegetables. Look for ones that have dark or bright colors because they generally have more of the vitamins and nutrients that your body needs.

Remember to wash produce before eating it. It can be covered in pesticides and microorganisms that could make you ill. Wash thoroughly with clean water prior to consumption.

Keep your refrigerator at 37 degrees Fahrenheit or less to reduce the bacteria growth on any food. Foods that spoil easy, such as milk and meat, should be kept in the back of the refrigerator where it's the coldest. Other foods, such as jams and sauces, have a lot of preservatives and can be kept in the door because the warmer temperatures will not affect them as much.

* Crack Down with the First Symptoms
Despite all the preventative measures you take, sometimes it's impossible to avoid catching a bug that's going around anyway. When that happens, it's important to take early measures to boost your immune system so that the sickness doesn't get worse.

The power of a good night's rest should not be underestimated. If that sounds like common sense to you, you'd be surprised to find out that only half of Americans (51 percent) know to get more sleep when they feel a cold coming on. One of the best things you can do for your body at the onset of illness is to rest so that your body's immune system can fight the sickness and help you feel better quicker.

For more information about defending yourself and your family from germs, visit www.Vicks.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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