By Chloe Davis
Staff Writer

With the change in seasons, we are about to experience another spell of sickness: cold and allergy season.

People in a college environment are surrounded by the fear of contracting this sickness in their everyday lives.

We live in close proximities, the weather still forces us to remain indoors, and we share public spaces, but there is a lot that we can do to prevent getting sick.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, you should maintain a plate full of a variety of colors of fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants, vitamin E, selenium, and vitamin C.

These vitamins work together with our primary immune response to help increase our resistance to colds and infection from pathogens.

There are also foods that help to maintain the mucous membranes of our noses and lungs.

These foods, such as carrots, apricots, and broccoli, contain beta-carotene, which help these membranes to catch invading germs upon entry.

Some ways to get your germ-fighting fix while out and about at Simmons:
– Dip carrots in peanut/nut butter -Dip red peppers in hummus
– Pack a snack of dried plums, almonds, and apricots
– Get some sleep

In addition to maintaining a healthy and varied diet during this time, make sure to get enough sleep to help your body recuperate, drink lots of water to keep your system fresh, and don’t forget to wash your hands frequently.