Information on Antibiotics

Please visit "What Everybody Should Know and Do"  and Antiobiotic Resistance Questions and Answers at the Centers for Disease Control website.

Strategic, Smart Eating

Many well-intentioned people go on fad or crash diets to start the new year but by the end of January, they’ve fallen into their old eating habits.  Try a more balanced approach to changing your diet by committing to reasonable goals such as cooking and eating at home more often, cutting down on processed foods and practicing portion control. 

FGCU Student Health Services offers no cost dietetic counseling through the services of a Registered Dietitian available for appointments Mondays and Tuesdays.  Call 239-590-7966 for an appointment.

Regular Exercise

Staying healthy means moving your body---vigorously and regularly, which can be more difficult when classes begin and it’s dark outside in the evenings.  FGCU offers several fitness options by visiting their website and their many fitness activities and programs.  http://www.fgcu.edu/CampusRec/index.html

Hydrate

Drinking eight, 8oz. glasses of water per day has all sorts of physical benefits.  This habit can assist you in maintaining a balance of body fluids, keeping you healthy inside and out.  Drinking this amount of water can also stave off hunger pains and helps maintain digestive health.  To stay hydrated, water is the best, but juices, tea, and milk and even coffee are good alternatives.  Stay away from alcohol which can actually contribute to dehydration.

Get Your Sleep

A good night’s sleep can be elusive in today’s world that’s filled with reasons to stay up late and wake up early.  Try to follow a regular sleep schedule—even on the weekends—and a consistent bedtime routine.  Avoid caffeine and large meals late in the day or in the hours just before bedtime.  Create a dark, quiet bedroom environment with moderate temperatures to encourage sleep. 

Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands!!!!!  Hand hygiene is integral to staying healthy in the winters.  The germs that cause illness are common on daily touch points, such as doorknobs and light switches at home and desks.  One of the best ways to protect yourself during cold and flu season is to wash your hands properly and often—particularly after contact with common surfaces.  Wash hands with warm water, adequate soap, while lathering for 20 seconds before rinsing and drying completely with a clean towel.  Use hand sanitizer in a pinch to kill germs. 

Schedule Annual and Routine Exams

As you replace your calendars with those for 2013, it’s good a time to start planning for annual and regular wellness exams and appointments such as physicals, dental cleanings and any visits with your doctors on campus. Call FGCU Student Health Services at 239-590-7966 to schedule an appointment for a general checkup or health screening.  http://studentservices.fgcu.edu/Healthservices/