In the Gym
Exercising when you are sick is okay, as long as you feel up to it, are not feverish and have had an ongoing routine. Listen to your body, though. Take it easy and perhaps slow down or stop sooner than you might otherwise.

Exercise promotes circulation and helps to remove toxins from the body. It may actually improve immunity, as long as you exercise with some common sense.

Wash hands thoroughly before and after exercise and wipe down machines before and after use.

It is not just dumbbells and handrails that are susceptible, but taps, sinks and water fountains as well.

Use a sweat towel instead of your hands to wipe your perspiration. Avoid touching your mouth, eyes or face, which is how germs enter your body.

If you belong to an outside facility, it should appear to be kept clean and have a good ventilation system.

Fungi and bacteria love warm and moist areas so wear flip-flops in the shower areas and always sit on a towel in the sauna.

Bottled disinfectant, often available for your use and everyone else’s, is a germ carrier itself. Unless your gym has individual wipes from a pull-down dispenser, you may want to stow some disinfecting wipes of your own and avoid handling the disinfectant bottles.

In the Kitchen
Wash your hands before you handle food, every time. Washing your hands frequently is one of the best ways to avoid getting ill.

Eat antioxidant rich foods and lots of them. Fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals and they are easy to digest. Omega 3, an essential fatty acid, helps to fight inflammation.

Drink plenty of water to keep tissues hydrated and cells properly nourished.

Avoid sugar and alcohol. A single teaspoon of sugar can reduce immune activity by half, for more than 2 hours. Honey or natural alternatives are better choices.

Dairy, particularly cow products, creates mucus – an ideal environment for critters that thrive in moist areas. Generally, goat, rice or almond products are a better choice.

In general, remember that stress can significantly lower your resistance, making you more susceptible, as can lack of sleep. A good eight hours of shut-eye goes a long way toward helping the body rebuild and rejuvenate. It is important to get outside a little every day for some sunshine and fresh air. Pay attention to the cues from your body. It knows what you need.

And when all else fails, research seems to indicate that chicken soup is a good remedy. It helps to break up congestion and may even ease inflammation. In any case, sick or not, the TLC associated with chicken soup just has to warm the heart.


Beth Gorbet began her professional career as a graphic artist in the marketing industry. Twenty years later, a health crisis led her to the study of nutrition and she is a graduate of the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. In addition to private practice, she has been the featured speaker at a number of venues including CB Richard Ellis, BDO Dun Woody, Metroland, U of T's Physical Education Department and offers a wonderful corporate lunch and learn series entitled "Beyond the Food Story." Details of her services can be viewed at http://www.bitebybite.com

©2007 to Beth Gorbet