Myth: “If you’re healthy, you don’t need a flu shot.”
Fact: Even healthy individuals can get the flu and spread it to others.
“I’m healthy, so I don’t need a flu shot,” sound familiar? Even if you’re healthy, getting the flu shot is crucial because it plays an important role in public health. It helps protect vulnerable people around you—infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems—by reducing the spread of influenza. Vaccination also minimizes the severity of any flu you might catch, lowering the risk of serious complications. Plus, it makes sure that people who really need medical care can still get it. Getting a flu shot isn’t just about looking out for yourself; it’s a way to help keep everyone in our community healthy and safe. Debunk other Flu Shot Myths.
A few ideas to help lessen a sore post-flu shot arm include relaxing your arm during the injection, applying ice or a warm compress, taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, stretching your arm the hours after the injection, drinking plenty of water, and planning to get some extra rest. Stay healthy this flu season and avoid a post flu shot sore arm!
Myth: “Skipping meals before a big holiday dinner saves calories.”
Fact: Skipping meals can lead to overeating later.
Wanting to stay healthy this season? Many think skipping meals before the big holiday dinner saves calories. Think again! Skipping meals doesn’t save calories; it can lead to overeating. When you skip meals, your blood sugar drops, which increases hunger and can cause you to eat more quickly than usual. This approach often results in less balanced choices and eating more than planned. Instead, try eating small, balanced meals throughout the day. That way, you’ll be more likely to maintain energy levels. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, steady food intake helps manage hunger and reduces the likelihood of binge eating.
Here are some tips to avoid overeating at Thanksgiving: drink water before your meal, eat slowly, and serve yourself smaller portions. Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables and wait a few minutes before considering seconds. (Mayo Clinic)
Got questions? Submit them to RN Laura, who’ll reply in the following newsletter:
laura@businesshealthtrust.com.