It starts with a cough in the distance at your 9 a.m. lecture. Then, the student who sits next to you repeatedly leaves the room to blow their nose. When you finally escape the bacterial war zone and arrive back at your dorm, your roommate’s voice sounds a little scratchier than usual. Eventually, you feel that tickle in your throat, and you know it’s got you: the freshman flu.
The freshman flu is a common phenomenon that describes the cold-like illness that affects many students during their first year of college.
While this mysterious illness may be a rite of passage for some, it isn’t entirely unavoidable, especially if you approach prevention with the same dedication you bring to your classes. So, how do you avoid the freshman flu? It starts with prevention.
Get a Flu Shot
The most practical way to avoid the freshman flu is to get a flu shot. Fortunately for students, the Health Center offers free flu shots. The best time to schedule your shot is now, because appointment slots can fill up quickly.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Another way to boost your immune system is by maintaining a healthy diet. As college students, it can be tempting to rely on packaged foods, or “dining hall slop”, but eating fruits and vegetables regularly can make a difference. Vitamin C plays an important role in immune function, and Pack Place offers a variety of fruits and vegetables at its salad bar. Please use them.
Consider Immune Support Supplements
Taking immune support supplements may also help support your overall health. Set a reminder to take them before class each morning so staying consistent becomes part of your routine. I’d recommend the OLLY active immunity gummies, which can be shipped straight to your dorm from Amazon.
Manage Your Alcohol Intake
For many students, freshman year includes late nights and social gatherings. However, excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system. Try to keep track of how much you’re drinking and limit your intake when possible. It’s also incredibly important to stay hydrated in general, but especially when you’re drinking.
Prioritize Sleep
Finally, get some sleep. Your body cannot perform at its best with only a few hours of rest. Whether late-night study sessions or social activities are keeping you up, it’s important to prioritize sleep and recovery.
The freshman flu is unpleasant for everyone involved, but it’s much better to observe it from a distance than experience it yourself. Although college campuses might be a breeding ground for sicknesses even scientists don’t want to research, to survive your freshman year, you must take your health into your own hands.
