Fall is almost here! The change in weather presents several health challenges for teenagers. This season carries with it the common cold, acne-related issues, and the flu.
These things can affect not only the consistency of your teenager's attendance in school but also their self-esteem. Here are some ways you can prepare your teenagers.
1. The Common Cold and How to Avoid It
The common cold is rampant during the fall and spring seasons. Roughly 50% of cold cases are reported around this time. The cold is easy to catch; therefore, teenagers should be careful during this season. An inflammation in the nose and throat causes the common cold. You can avoid it by advising your teens to maintain social distance from those affected.
Ensure your teens wash their hands regularly with soap and water for fifteen to thirty seconds, especially after being in public spaces or coughing or sneezing. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of green, leafy vegetables and regular exercise are other ways your teen can combat the common cold.
Ensure they eat a nutritious meal and are active to allow their body to build immunity. Getting enough sleep is another excellent strategy for dealing with the common cold. As they sleep, your teen's body releases a protein known as cytokines, which helps fight infection by regulating the body's immune system.
2. Acne: Every Teenager's Nightmare
Due to hormonal changes in your teenager's body, they're highly acne-prone. According to Yale Medicine, over 85% of the world's population is affected by acne, especially those between 12 and 24 years old. Unfortunately, it is a real confidence killer, as it affects people at the most impressionistic stage of life. Many teenagers facing acne issues have self-esteem challenges, but you can help your teenager cope.
Take them to a dermatologist or esthetician to establish a tailored skincare routine. They'll learn about different products and how to use them for healthy skin. Also, inform your teenager about the problems they're likely to inflict on their faces if they pick at their pimples, which is always very tempting. Ultimately, popping up acne causes more harm than good in the long run.
Ensure your teenager eats a balanced diet and drinks lots of water. Food also largely affects the health of your skin. So, they must avoid foods that exacerbate acne, including refined grains, whey protein powder, greasy food, chocolate, fast food, dairy products, and sugar. Remind your teenager to shower after sweaty activities, as sweat could also aggravate acne.
3. Flu Vaccination
The flu is an extremely infectious respiratory illness that largely affects vulnerable people like young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions. The flu vaccine has an average effectiveness of 60% to 90%, meaning it's very likely to help your teen avoid the illness altogether. So, ensure your teenager gets the flu vaccine every year.
Ideally, the best time to get the vaccine is during the summer, before fall starts. Inform your teenager about the importance of the vaccine not just for their protection but for those around them, especially vulnerable people.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Unfortunately, many of the diseases currently plaguing people are caused by the kinds of lives we live. Lifestyle diseases are easy to avoid if one is intentional about overall well-being. Teach your teenagers to live healthily.
Encourage them to walk, eat balanced meals, exercise, and talk to someone they trust whenever they feel overwhelmed. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Your teenager needs to feel safe enough to share their burdens, as stress can manifest in physical ways. Educate your teenager about the importance of practicing these things and how simple actions improve their quality of life.
Keep the common cold and flu at bay and work with your teenager as they outgrow acne. This is an excellent opportunity to bond with them and help them understand their bodies and emotions better. Keep communication channels open so they feel comfortable talking to you about their health issues. With these tips, your teen can maneuver what is thrown at them this fall.
