Alexandra Ramirez
Staying healthy throughout the winter months can be a challenge for the entire family. Because windows and doors are shut when the temperatures drops, the possibility that a virus will take a hold of our health is greater. As a result, many people suffer from colds, flu, and other winter germs on a constant basis. Even though getting sick if often inevitable, there are some things you can do to remain healthy during these cold times. To assist you with your efforts, we’ve compiled a list that includes 5 Tips to Stay Healthy This Winter.
1. Eat Right
Yes, eating right is generally the number one priority on any health list, and rightfully so. In fact, one of the biggest challenges during the winter months is protecting the body’s immune system. Since some foods are not good for your body, and they can easily break the immune system down, most health professionals recommend eliminating junk foods altogether. Instead, a diet of immune-boosting foods can help keep colds, flu, and other winter diseases away. For instance, if you want to boost your immune system during the winter, it will help to add some of the following foods to your meals:
- Beef – great source of Zinc, which is used in the development of white blood cells that defend the body from illness and disease.
- Sweet Potatoes – great source of Vitamin A, which is used to reduce infections.
- Dark Leafy Greens – great source of Vitamin C, which is used to fight colds and boost immunity.
- Chicken Soup – great source of vitamins and minerals which help you recover from colds.
2. Move Around More
Even though most people are tempted to stay inside to avoid the frigid temperatures, this is not necessarily the best way to spend your winter. In fact, if you continue to take brisk walks, climb up and down stairs, and play various sports, you are much more likely to ward off colds and flu. According to a University of South Carolina researcher, these activities will further strengthen the immune system.
3. Wash Your Hands Often
Certainly you know how important it is to wash your hands and how frequently it is required during the winter months. According to information supplied by researchers from the Naval Health Research Center in San Diego, frequently washing your hands can make a big difference in your overall health. Based on their research, they were able to notice a significant decrease in respiratory illnesses when people complied with their hand washing recommendations, particularly when students washed their hands at least 5 times a day. As a general rule, a simple regimen of washing your hands with soap and water is one of the best ways to remain healthy all year round.
4. Turn in Early
Another key to making sure you remain healthy this winter is getting enough sleep. Because sleep helps with regenerating and restoring the body, a lack of rest can compromise your immunity. Therefore, for those of you who are always on the run, it is best to pace yourself slower in the winter months. Instead of staying up all night and into the early hours of the morning, just allow your body to get the proper amount of rest so that it can fight off problems.
Typically, when the body is not rested, it is much easier to catch a cold, and that could potentially have you down for days. If you do wind up with a terrible cold that gets you down, you will need to have a good cough medicine around the house that can help you function during the day and also get a good night’s rest.
5. Dress Warmly
When the fall months usher out and the winter months sweep in with a cold brittle breeze, it is important that you are ready for the upcoming seasonal change, particularly, when it comes to dressing for the weather. You want to be prepared so that you are less likely to succumb to sicknesses that result from being out in the elements.
Based on the area that you live in, you may or may not need a heavy coat. Either way, you will need to wear garments that are appropriate for your geographical location. For instance, in some less-harsh areas of the U.S., a coat, a scarf, mittens or gloves, and regular shoes is all that’s needed to keep you warm when leaving your house. On the other hand, if you live in a geographical location that tends to have harsh winters all season long, you need a good pair of warmly designed boots, woolen winter hats, and warmer gear to stay covered and bundled sufficiently. Either way, you will need to make sure that you have what you need to get through the winter.
Conclusion
Staying healthy during the winter months can be a challenging experience for you and your family. Because the winter brings in a host of unwanted germs and viruses that can affect your overall health, it is important to know what you can do to remain healthy at all times.
Take advantage of some of the above great tips that can aid you during these times. Make sure you are eating the right foods to boost your immune system, exercising on a regular basis, washing your hands often, getting the appropriate amount of rest to protect your immune system, and dressing warmly to keep your body comfortable. All these ideas can help you make it through the season without unnecessary problems with winter colds, viruses, or other associated illnesses.
