Wellness matters: how flight crew remain healthy and fight germs

November 6, 6:25 PMHealthy Travel ExaminerCheryl Murphy

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Flu symptoms

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Soaring high at 37000 miles high and crowded into a metal tube, one may find there is nowhere to bolt from coughs, sneezes and illnesses. But take a look at the flight crew. They seem perky, jovial and making there job seem effortless even at 6:00 in the morning. How do they do it? They have to be exposed to the most communicable diseases out there. Are their immune systems just tough enough to take it after years of exposure to all the bacteria? Most airlines have strict dependency policies so flight crew can’t be calling in sick every month. What is their secret?

To stay healthy in the friendly skies, flight crews rely on six pieces of advice:

• Keep hands clean. This sometimes sounds like a no brainer, but it a very important piece of advice. Keep hands clean by washing with soap and water at least for 30 seconds.
• Inflight crew handle baby bottles, pick up rubbish, sometimes handle money and care for ill passengers in an arid environment. If soap and water are not immediately available, then hand sanitizers will work.
• Hydrate. Flight crews know the importance of water. Water keeps the body hydrated so that our cells can function properly. Water also carries nutrients from our food to the cells and flushes out toxins and waste. It fights off infections and helps the lymph system wash away bacteria.
• Supplements should always be looked at as an insurance policy. Even though many of us eat healthy and exercise, it is essential to protect our health with a good multivitamin. Zinc lozenges fight viruses and vitamin C will boost the immune system.
• Sleep and rest are crucial during the cold and flu season. Sleep allows the body to repair itself. Remember that the quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity of sleep. If trying to fight off a cold or flu, try to extend the amount of sleep and it will be noticeable how much better one feels.
• Last but not least, diet and exercise make a huge difference when it comes to boosting immunity. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables keeps the body hydrated and provides nutrients and minerals for the body. Exercise allows the body to circulate and stay strong.

It makes sense to practice healthy habits daily that will help prevent illness at home or in the air. One may never know when it is impossible to bolt from that dreaded sneeze.