How to Stay Healthy as a Trucker this Flu Season
As the winter months and colder temperatures approach, so does the infamous cold and flu season. However, regardless of the weather (or viruses), trucking companies never take a break. Because a truck driver’s job is so important, staying healthy is a must, and by following some basic good hygiene practices, drivers can increase their odds greatly of staying flu-free this season.
How to Stay Flu-Free
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is important for overall health, as it supports the functionality of the internal organs, improves mood and sleep quality, and helps in nutrient absorption at a cellular level. When the body is well-hydrated it also helps flush away toxins, which is key to fighting off sickness. If you’re not a fan of plain water, consider adding lemon or incorporating herbal teas to boost fluid intake.
Give Your Immune System a Boost
During flu season, consider boosting your immune system by supplementing your diet with vitamins C, D, and zinc. These vitamins and minerals are found naturally in leafy greens, citrus, and berries, which should be a part of your daily diet. If not, consider the capsule or pill version, because in addition to helping protect against or speed up recovery of colds and viruses, they also support blood pressure, healthy bones, and cleanse the body of free radicals.
Exercise Regularly
Leading an active lifestyle boosts your immune system, helps prevent weight gain, and reduces the risk of respiratory infections. Regular exercise also lowers stress and reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Simply walking 15 minutes a day is a good exercise, so even when you’re on the road, make some time for exercise every day.
Avoid Indulgences
Most everyone enjoys some type of indulgence that offers very little health benefit. Whether yours is coffee, sugar, tobacco, or alcohol, consider transitioning to a healthier alternative, as these items deplete the body of nutrients and compromise the immune system.
Savor Quality Downtime
Taking time out each day to practice self-care can offer multiple benefits. In addition to getting a good night’s sleep, it’s also important to do something you enjoy during your downtime. These healthy habits serve to reduce stress, protect you from sickness and disease, and improve overall mood and well-being.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Hand washing is one of the best ways to get rid of germs which is especially important during flu season. Germs spread through contact and truckers visit an array of populated areas on any given day. From truck stop visits, restaurants, and refueling the truck, there is ample opportunity to come in contact with someone who is sick. Always wash your hands with warm water and soap, lathering up for at least 20 seconds and opening doors with a paper towel. When handwashing isn’t an option, at least use hand sanitizer several times a day.
Keep Your Truck Clean
During long hauls, truck drivers spend several hours in their trucks and make many stops along the way. Of course, keeping your truck clean is always a good idea because it’s essentially your home away from home. However, much more important than aesthetics is disinfecting your truck, to lessen your exposure to those nasty flu and virus germs that may be lurking on door handles, steering wheel, and console.
Consider the Flu Shot
According to the CDC, the flu vaccine reduces the risk of contracting the flu by 40 to 60%. If you’re concerned about getting sick, consult your physician. In addition, taking proper care of yourself through eating healthy, staying active, and choosing a positive attitude will help you avoid getting sick and feel better each and every day.
Your Health Comes First
It can be tough to put your health first as a trucker, but if you make it a priority, you’ll reduce the risk of getting the flu, enjoy good health year-round, and keep up with those day-to-day responsibilities, like driving and taking care of your loved ones. Getting creative by making your own meals on the go and finding opportunities to stay active is a step in the right direction if you’re concerned about keeping sickness at bay and staying as healthy as can be through flu season and beyond.
Suppose U Drive Puts Families First
Suppose U Drive is an expert in the trucking community. For more than 80 years Suppose U Drive has been running on family values–the same values that started the company back in 1936.
To this day, Suppose U Drive is still family owned, and while much larger nowadays, our customers know and love us for our family style approach to service, quality, and community. It’s why we have employees that have been with us for as many as 45 years, and it’s what strengthens our bond with the neighbors around us.
If you’re looking to join the Suppose U Drive family, sign up for our free our newsletter that will keep you abreast of the latest industry related events. We also offer customized agreements that enable companies to grow their fleets while staying on budget. And, because we are continuously expanding, we’re always looking to grow our team. Contact us today if you want to learn more about how you can be part of the Suppose U Drive mission and help us keep family values alive.