Fit by the Fork: Kick the sickness and get well sooner

Being homesick is one thing, but being actually sick at college is so much worse. I’ll admit it: I’m almost 22 years old, and I still wish my mom could have been here last week to take care of me when I came down with a bad cough and stuffy nose.

Luckily, I’m almost back to my normal, healthy self, although I couldn’t have done it without sticking to these tips and tricks. Don’t wait until you’re sick to try them out!

Take a multivitamin every day

It would be nice if every morsel of food that passed our lips fulfilled every single nutrient, vitamin and mineral that we need. A multivitamin is the next best thing. Whether you gulp down the regular kind with a glass of water or opt for the gummy-kind, it’s the easiest good habit to establish.

Catch plenty of Zzz’s

Coming from someone who constantly burns the midnight oil to finish homework (or binge watch another episode of The Office), getting eight hours of sleep every night is unrealistic — yet absolutely important. Your body needs even more shut-eye when you’re sick, so skimping will make you feel worse. Repeat after me: sleep is a priority.

Stay hydrated

As long as it’s healthy, anything works. Be mindful of how much juice, Gatorade or ginger ale you’re drinking, because all that sugar can add up fast. Diluting these with water (except the ginger ale, obviously) can help. Fluids are key, especially for thinning mucus and flushing out the bad stuff in your body.

Eat the right foods

I know, I know. This one’s kind of obvious, but do what you can to get in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Smoothies and soups are a great way to hit all of those food groups, plus there are tons of varieties out there to choose from.

Disinfect everything

Your roommates may tease you for being a clean freak, but they’ll thank you later. Disinfectant wipes are cheap and hassle-free, plus they can be used on nearly everything. Do the TV remote, doorknobs, microwave keypad, kitchen counters, refrigerator handle, bathroom surfaces, etc. At the very least, disinfect your phone with a squirt of hand sanitizer on a tissue. Just think about how many germs are lurking on it.

While you can’t avoid every virus out there, prevention will take your immunity far. Wash your hands, use your sleeve for coughing and sneezing and take good care of yourself this semester!

Emily McIntyre is a senior studying journalism with a focus in news and information at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Do you use multivitamins? Let her know by emailing her at em564912@ohio.edu.