Wendy Betts

7 STEPS TO HELP YOU

STAY HEALTHY OVER THE HOLIDAYS!

Getting a cold or the flu is never fun, but it's worse when you're sick while everyone else is party hopping, gift shopping or sitting down to a giant holiday feast. So how can you thwart those nasty germs before they launch an attack that spoils your festive season? Dr. Michael Finkelstein, associate medical officer of health for Toronto, offers 7 simple suggestions for staying well throughout the holidays.

1. Cleanliness is next to germ-free-ness
"We cannot stress hand-washing enough," says Finkelstein. Germs are most often transmitted through touch, so make sure you wash your hands before touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Be wary of popular germ-laden sites like shopping-cart handles, doorknobs, public telephones and other people.

2. Drink up
Hydration is key in winter, when mucous membranes -- the body's first line of defense against germs -- can dry out, so make sure you're drinking enough H2O. But, warns Finkelstein, not all seasonal beverages fit the bill. "Alcohol is actually dehydrating, so the combination of the cold weather with a lot of parties that involve alcohol decreases the body's defenses and increases your risk of becoming infected."

3. A shot in the arm
It's been said before but merits saying again: get your flu shot. The flu can really knock you out if it hits, so Finkelstein recommends rolling up your sleeve at your doctor's office or nearest community health centre for immunization. And don't worry about waiting too long in the flu season to get your shot -- Finkelstein says it's never too late.

4. Home is where the healing is
You may find yourself committed to a number of activities and events over the holidays, but if you're not well, it's always better to stay home. "I think we tend to soldier on a bit further than we should in the holiday season," notes Finkelstein. But "we don't want to be a source of infection for our community, so staying home when you're ill is something that will help everybody."

5. Get some R & R
You're busy, you're tired, and you're stressed out...and what does a body best at times like these? The answer lies in a simple four-letter word: rest. Take it easy, give yourself time to recharge and you'll be better equipped to tackle that holiday party or school concert

6. Move it
Even if you have loads of things to do, squeeze in a little exercise. It's a great way to burn extra calories and work off some of your stress. Says Finkelstein: "We know that that's going to decrease your stress level, so that's a way to take some time for yourself and to support your body through physical activity."

7. Beware of food cooties
Think that tray of hors d'oeuvres is a safe bet? Think again. Finkelstein warns that partygoers should be mindful of viruses (such as Norwalk), which can spread through improper food handling and preparation. Some key factors to remember: maintain clean work surfaces, avoid cross-contamination of foods, keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and, as always, wash your hands before you touch