Family Health & Wellness for 2017 With Dr. Shayna Mancuso! by Donna John

For most of us, having a happy and healthy 2017 is our No. 1 priority. But it can be hard to keep the whole family well and virus-free during winter months. Our good friend and 30Seconds contributor, Dr. Shayna Mancuso, joined us this week at our #30Seconds Twitter chat and offered expert advice on family health and wellness!

@30seconds @DrShayna30 A1: I'll be taking notes. I really need some good tips to avoid getting sick anymore this year! #30seconds

— Lori Leal (@LoriLeal1) January 19, 2017

Q: It seems like kids are always sick in winter. What are some actions we can take to create a healthy family strategy?

• Reinforce proper hand washing throughout the day. Also have kids change clothes directly after school.
• Healthy eating: Protein, veggies, fruits with vitamin C and antioxidants. I think green smoothies are miracle workers!
• Regular exercise for the whole family! I love family yoga sessions and family boot camps. (Bring it indoors in colder climates!)
• Immunity-boosting essential oils may help, too!

@30seconds @DrShayna30 a1 always take your vitamins, plenty of wayer, Echinacea, eat hethy, stay active, wash hands hehe #30Seconds

— jennah jackson (@cam_brandosmomm) January 19, 2017

Q: Any specific tips to fight the flu?

• Good hand washing is key to preventing the spread of the flu virus. Use regular soap and warm water for 20 seconds.
• Make sure to cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Get plenty of rest and increase fluids (water plus electrolytes) for little ones, and don’t forget Popsicles to get fluids in slow and steady.
• Humidifiers, vaporizers, diffusing essential oils, steam showers, and treat fevers when appropriate.
• Flu is contagious one day before symptoms begin until seven days after. Kids should not return to school until without fever for 24 hours.

@DrShayna30 Are you pro Flu Vaccinations? Everyone has different opinion. #30seconds confusing

— Chefgigi (@chefgigi) January 19, 2017

I do give myself and my children the flu shot..BUT I'm very sensitive to the fact that this is a very personal decision❤️ @chefgigi#30seconds

— Dr. Shayna Mancuso (@DrShayna30) January 19, 2017

@30seconds @DrShayna30 A1: I sanitize toys and the house as often as possible #30seconds

— Amanda (@aeott26) January 19, 2017

Q: How important is sleep in keeping your family healthy?

So important! Studies show lack of sleep leads to fewer white blood cells and antibodies, which we need to fight infection. Generally…

• toddlers need 11-13 hours of sleep per night
• school-age kids require 10-11 hours
• tweens need 9-10 hours
• teens 8-9 hours

@30seconds A3: sleep is so important! A good night's rest can make all the difference in good health #30seconds

— Lori Leal (@LoriLeal1) January 19, 2017

@30seconds A3 Very! My doctor just told me I'm not losing weight because of my lack of sleep #30Seconds

— Carrie Beth (@Forever30ishMum) January 19, 2017

Q: What are some signs of when you should take your child to the doctor?

• Any fever (defined as 100.4 or greater) in an infant 2 months or younger.
• A fever that lasts two to three days in an older child (or a fever that is 102.0 or greater on day one).
• Any signs of breathing heavier/deeper than usual, not eating, drinking or appearing dehydrated.
• Excessive crankiness or sleepiness that persists.

@30seconds not eating, lethargic, fever, & other symptoms. Plus, there is a certain look in their eyes they are sick. #30Seconds

— Kim Kusiciel (@barefoot79) January 19, 2017

#30seconds / I think it's pretty awesome that a Mom just knows when there's something wrong with their child.

— Rachel W. Lewter (@toomuch4ne1) January 19, 2017

Q: January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. It affects so many women and moms. Any thoughts on cervical cancer and why cervical cancer screening is important?

Cervical cancer occurs when cervical cells become abnormal and grow out of control over time. Most cervical cancers are caused by infection with HPV virus. HPV is a virus that can enter cells and cause them to change. It may take three to seven years for high-grade changes in cells to progress to cancer. Cervical cancer screenings may detect changes early.

@30seconds @30seconds A5: if you have family history exams are even more important #30seconds

— Jenn Thompson (@JennyJenn23) January 19, 2017

@30seconds A5 it's often that hidden cancer. We don't talk about our cervix we can't see it! Screening is the only way to know #30Seconds

— Nona Currence (@kmtnmomof3) January 19, 2017

Q: What are the latest recommendations for cervical cancer screening (pap tests)?

Pap tests should begin at age 21. The American College of OB/GYN recommends that women aged 21-29 years should have a pap test every three years. Women aged 30-65 years should have a pap test AND an HPV test every five years (OR a pap test alone every three years). These recommendations are for women who have a history of normal pap tests. Pelvic exams are still recommended annually.

Q6: After a hysterectomy, the decision for additional pap tests is based on whether or not your cervix was removed #30seconds

— Dr. Shayna Mancuso (@DrShayna30) January 19, 2017

Q6: If you have a history of cervical cell changes ( and had a hyst) you should continue screening for 20yrs after time of surgery#30seconds

— Dr. Shayna Mancuso (@DrShayna30) January 19, 2017

@30seconds Don't delay. Schedule your exam today!! #30Seconds

— Kim Kusiciel (@barefoot79) January 19, 2017

What great advice! Be sure to follow  @DrShayna30, like her on Facebook and check out her 30Seconds page!