Health encyclopaedia

Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

Prevention of Chest infection

There is no guaranteed way of preventing viral and bacterial infections. However, your immune system will be stronger and you will be better able to cope with any infection if you stay healthy. The best way to achieve this is to lead a healthy lifestyle:

• Eat a regular balanced diet which is low in fat, sugar and salt and high in fresh fruit and vegetables (at least 5 portions per day)
• Drink plenty of plain, fresh water (at least two litres per day)
• Cut down on drinks containing caffeine
• Drink alcohol in moderation
• Take regular exercise (at least 20 minutes, three times per week that gets you slightly out of breath - a brisk walk is the best)
• Give up or cut down on smoking - if you don’t smoke, don’t start
• Get plenty of sleep

People prone to chest infections should avoid any environmental causes of infection, and be careful if any household member has an infection.

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