Health Tips For Winter
Health Tips For Winter
Winter is a time of year when many people experience the worst of cold and flu
season, and it can be hard to stay healthy during this time kttc.marketminute. But there are plenty of
things you can do to keep your immune system strong and your body feeling great
this season — all you need to do is follow a few simple habits.
Boost your energy and mood by exercising regularly (even on a chilly day!). Exercise
can improve your sleep, boost your metabolism and help you avoid seasonal
illnesses. Try a walk around your neighborhood, an evening run, or a brisk bike ride
outside. You can also try an online class or virtual training program for a low-impact
workout.
Take care of your skin, hair and nails to prevent the dryness that can make you feel
dehydrated. Apply a moisturizer to your hair and skin every day, especially after a
bath or shower. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen when you go outdoors!
Protect yourself from contagious illnesses by staying away from sick people and
washing your hands frequently. This can help you avoid cold and flu as well as
COVID-19, which is a virus that can cause serious symptoms like rash and coughing.
Be sure to eat more fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are in season.
They’re a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants that boost your immunity,
according to the National Institutes of Health. Including fresh fruit and veggies in
your diet can also make you feel more energized.
Add a variety of whole grains and legumes to your diet, too, for more fibre. These
foods can help you feel full and less likely to overeat, which can lead to weight gain.
Get enough sleep, too! This is especially important during the winter, when there’s
less natural sunlight. Lack of sleep can make you irritable and more likely to have
trouble focusing on your tasks, which can affect your mood. It can also disrupt your
circadian rhythm — the body’s internal clock that regulates important functions,
including sleep cycle and mental health.
Maintain a healthy diet by eating a balanced meal plan that includes whole grains,
lean proteins and fresh produce. Be sure to eat at least three meals per day and
snack between them to stay satisfied.
Increasing your protein intake can help to balance blood sugar levels and promote
weight loss. A higher-protein diet can also support muscle strength and bone health.
Eating smaller meals more often can also help you avoid overeating. For example, a
small bowl of cereal with milk or a half-cup of nuts can satisfy hunger without
leaving you overstuffed.
In addition, avoiding junk food and sugary drinks can also help you avoid illnesses.
Instead of reaching for a soda, drink water or unsweetened low-fat milk.
Wash your hands more often, too — and don’t forget to use an alcohol-based hand
sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. This can help you avoid colds and
other respiratory ailments, says family medicine physician Daniel Allan, MD.