Avoiding Winter illness
Dr. Greg Whyte, Dr. Richard Budgett, Dr. Rod Jaques and Paul Davies
- Avoid contact with people with infectious illness.
- Wash hands regularly, particularly after touching surfaces that are frequently handled by others
- Avoid hand-to-eye, mouth and nose contact to prevent spreading of germs.
- Minimise contact with large crowds, including shared baths/showers, saunas and jacuzzis
- Drink regularly and maintain hydration status at rest and during training/competition.
- Carbohydrate solution pre-, during and post-training may help in reducing immune suppression.
- Do not share drink bottles or cutlery.
- Allow sufficient time between training sessions for recovery.
- Get regular and adequate sleep.
- Maintain a well-balanced diet with adequate energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat and micronutrient intake.
- Take advice on the use of additional supplements.
- Over-supplementation of vitamins and minerals can impair immune function.
- Discuss the possibility of vaccination with your team doctor.
- Reduce life/social/psychological stress.
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