Swine flu prevention tips

Surprising tips to keep you healthy and free of swine flu.

Fri, Sep 04 2009 at 7:00 AM EST

Photo: meganelaine/Flickr

You probably already know that one of the best ways to avoid swine flu this fall is to wash your hands as often as possible, and certainly at those critical times like after you go to the bathroom and before you eat. You may even know that it's a good idea to avoid touching your mouth, eyes and face (germs are spread when you touch something that is contaminated and then spread the germs to your eyes, nose or mouth.) Another good common sense tip is to stay away from sick people -- at school and at work -- to minimize your exposure to germs.

All of those tips are good ways to avoid getting swine flu (or any other cold or flu) this fall. But there are even more things you can do to improve your overall health and significantly reduce your chances of getting sick. Here are some tips from Dr. Erika Schwartz, medical director of Cinergy Health on staying free from swine flu this fall:

Get eight hours of sleep every night.
Eat three meals a day that offer a balance of complex carbohydrates, protein and are chock full of fruit and vegetables. Stay away from prepared and preserved foods.
Drink six glasses of water and two cups of green tea a day.
Exercise six days a week to feel better, but not to exhaustion.
Address stressors in your life and limit their impact.