StatePoint

The beginning of the year is a natural time for a reset, especially when it comes to budgets and better-for-you habits.

With the cold and flu season still in full swing, it’s also a time when many people start thinking about how to stay healthy without spending more than they planned.

With a few tips and tricks, staying healthy doesn’t have to be expensive.

Here’s what you can do:

● Shop ahead. Most people don’t think about cold and flu products until they actually need them.

Stocking up ahead of time can help ensure quick access to relief while making it easier to take advantage of savings.

Using coupons, price-saving apps and shopping for store promotions can help bring down the cost of everyday health essentials.

● Choose generic and save. Store brand over-the-counter (OTC) products offer a more affordable option for common needs, including pain relief and cough and cold care.

Perrigo, a leading provider of store brand OTC products, makes trusted alternatives to name brands across key self-care categories, including ibu profen, acetaminophen, cough suppressants, decongestants and multi-symptom relief.

These store brand OTC products contain the same active ingredients and meet the same FDA standards as national name brands, but at a lower cost.

As health care costs continue to rise, consumers can opt for these store brand OTC products to save money without compromising on quality.

● Stay active. Staying active doesn’t have to mean joining a luxury gym membership or having a complicated routine. Research published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that moderate amounts of exercise can help reduce stress and support immune function.

Walking, running, free online workout classes or bodyweight exercises at home are all accessible ways to stay active throughout the season.

● Adopt healthy habits. Small, everyday habits can also make a difference during cold and flu season.

Washing your hands, staying hydrated and getting plenty of sleep are simple steps that support overall wellness and help reduce the risk of getting sick.

As consumers settle into their routines, combining smart shopping choices with healthy habits can help them feel prepared and more in control throughout the cold and flu season.