Six Tips for Staying Healthy This Fall

It has been said that 2020 is the year of uncertainty, however this year one thing has remained certain: people are concerned about their health. As we enter into the autumn season, we face a new set of challenges. From children heading back to school to the upcoming flu season to the ongoing pandemic, keeping yourself and your family healthy has never been more important. At Abraham Family Medicine, our healthcare providers are committed to keeping you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Here are a few tips we have for maintaining your well-being this fall.

1. Get Your Flu Shot
Did you know that getting a flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related doctor’s visits each year? In fact, according to the CDC, the flu vaccine prevented an estimated 4.4 million influenza illnesses during the 2018-2019 flu season. Not only can getting vaccinated decrease your chances of contracting the flu, but additional benefits include reduced illness severity if you do get sick and protection for people with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems.

2. Wash Your Hands
There is a good reason why the notion to wash your hands has been instilled in us from a young age. Germs spread to us when we touch surfaces and then proceed to touch our faces. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can ward off these germs. If a sink isn’t available, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is an effective substitute.

3. Get Enough Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is overwhelmingly beneficial for our health in a multitude of ways. Poor sleep quality can result in reduced physical and mental capabilities, lowered immune system functionality and increased weight gain. For adults, getting at least eight hours of sleep each night can help strengthen your immune system against illnesses.

4. Eat Healthy
Along with maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, eating a balanced, nutritional diet can help boost your immune system. Vegetables and fruits contain essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which help your body function properly. Foods to avoid include sugary drinks, junk food, artificial trans fats and refined carbs. Being mindful of what you eat can have a large impact on your overall health.

5. Take Precautions When You Leave the House
As fun as quarantining in your house is, more and more Georgians have made the decision to leave their homes for both essential and nonessential business. If you plan on going out, there are various precautions you can take to stay safe while exposed to others. Wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and carrying hand sanitizer are all steps you can take to protect yourself and those around you.

6. Have a Plan If You Do Get Sick
Despite following the tips we listed above, it is still possible to get sick. If you do start to feel unwell or notice any symptoms of illness, it’s important to have a plan in place so you can start feeling better as soon as possible. Here at Abraham Family Medicine, your health and well-being is our number one priority. We offer comprehensive diagnostic testing to help you find out exactly what illness your body is facing. Once a diagnosis is made, we will provide you with treatment options specifically tailored to your needs.

For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact Abraham Family Medicine today. We serve patients of all ages and are looking forward to seeing you at our Snellville office, located very close to Grayson, Dacula, and Lilburn.