1.                  Wash your hands! – Hand washing is the number one way to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. Wash your hands: Before you eat or drink. After you use the restroom. After you handle pets. After you handle shared objects.  After coughing or sneezing .  Before and after handling food.

2.                  Eat a balanced diet! – Eating a diet rich in whole wheat fiber, fruits and vegetables, lean meats and low- fat dairy can help maintain health and a healthy weight.

3.                  Exercise! – Exercise for 30 minutes or more on at least five days of each week. Any type of physical activity applies including: walking, running, swimming, organized sports and playing tag in the park.

4.                  Drink water! – Our bodies are composed of 60% water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, dry mouth and decreased mental alertness. You should drink 2 liters/ 8 cups of water per day on average. Increased activity, illness or hot, humid weather can increase your daily need.

5.                  Rest! – This includes getting enough sleep and resting your mind. The average person needs approximately 8 hours of sleep each night. Children and teens may need 10-12 hours per night. You also need to rest your mind and unwind each day. Stress can lead to irritability, decreased concentration and decreased immunity.