A Healthy Season

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR
With the season in full swing, and with Christmas break and the commitments that come with the season, I thought it would be a good time to bring up the topic of lifestyle habits for healthy athletes. Because it's that time of year.

With approaching exams, tests, projects, concerts, Christmas parties, etc., it's that time of year for sleep deprivation. I want to encourage our athletes to get adequate amounts of sleep. While an occasional shortened night due to commitments is normal, athletes need to be especially diligent about prioritizing time during a season in which they have added commitments.

You’d think with all the research on the importance of sleep lately, we would have gotten the message, ... it is good to aim for 8 hours per night, though many need more. The body needs sleep to function properly (or at all!) as organs process and revive during sleep, the endocrine system balances hormone levels, the immune system functions at a higher level and the brain recharges.
News story on sleep research for athletes.

> It's that time of year when the caloric intake and caloric output is easy to maintain, but it is important to think about the types of calories you're imputing. Though a little indulgence during the holidays is expected, during our normal seasonal routine you need to think about the best fuel for your body.

Here is a great article from USA swimming on proper nutrition for swimmers/athletes.
And an article on why soft drinks should be avoided.

> With as much time as swimmers and divers are in and out of the water, it's that time of year for Swimmers Ear - Here is a great link about swimmers ear. Pay special attention to a home formula for drying out ears.

> It flies from house to house this time of year bringing gifts at every stop. No it is not Santa's sleigh or Christmas presents, it is the cold and flu bug. It is that time of year when colds and flu can wipe you out for 7-10 days if you're not careful.
Here is some general good health habits during cold and flu season.

• Clean your hands. - Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. - Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs, then touches his/her eyes, nose or mouth.

Below are a couple articles with some ideas about how to help prevent, or at least fight off colds and flu.

Supplements that can help.

Ten ways to avoid cold and flu. Note the section on "Staying warm" and dressing for the weather.

Some additional homeopathic ideas