Hello everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the Holidays. We’ve made it to the New Year, but we still have a few months left of the flu season. Here are a few pointers to help you stay healthy in the coming months.
Tips to Washing Your Hands: *If you are unable to wash your hands, us a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer
1. Wet hands using clean water and apply soap (antibacterial or a mild soap).
2. Lather hands (back of hands, between fingers, and under nails).
3. Scrub hands for 20 seconds.
4. Rinse hands with clean water.
5. Air dry or use a clean towel to dry hands.
Tips to Staying Hydrated in Winter: How much water a person should drink is not as simple as the 8-glass-per-day rule! Some experts say that the easiest way to see if you’re hydrated is to watch your urine. It should be a pale yellow color – if it is darker, then drink more water. Other signs that you are not drinking enough water include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and feeling hungry. Other ways to stay hydrated besides plain water are:
1. Drink room temperature beverages like tea or water with lemon or cucumbers.
2. Use a humidifier.
3. Eat more fruits and vegetables.
4. Limit alcohol, soda, and coffee.
Eat Foods that Boost the Immune System:
Citrus Fruits – Vitamin C
Red Bell Peppers – Vitamin C and Beta Carotene
Broccoli – Antioxidants, Vitamins A, C, and E
Spinach – Vitamin C and Antioxidants
Yogurt – Live Active Cultures and Vitamin D
Almonds – Vitamins C and E
Papaya – Vitamin C and Digestive Enzymes
Kiwi – Vitamin C
Sources: Health Line and Prevention, Web D and CDC
About Shima: Shima graduated from the University of Arkansas with a BS in Microbiology in 1997 and worked at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences with the Infectious Disease Department on clinical trials for over 4 years. She then pursued a career change and graduated with her Doctorate degree from St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 2007. During her years enrolled in pharmacy school she worked part-time at St. Louis University, where she helped design a laboratory protocol for the BCG Vaccine Study, which received full funding in 2011.
Shima joined Sinks and Medley Pharmacy in September of 2014 as a pharmacist. She continually strives to focus on improving outcomes and raising the quality of life for patients with all types of medical ailments and conditions.
