Staying Healthy and Fit During Winter
Staying Healthy and Fit During Winter
Winter brings a chill in the air and the common cold to the unsuspecting, otherwise healthy individual. It is not easy to stay healthy during winter, yet taking care of yourself is essential. Becoming ill can be a significant hindrance to giving complete attention to all of your responsibilities, especially during winter. Although some of this blog may seem like common sense, there are some key points that you may want to heed. Some preventative measures can keep you away from medication and help to make your body a healthier YOU!
On average people catch cold one to four times a year, and almost one-quarter of them ends up getting the flu. Although we are surrounded by viruses and bacteria all year long, winter is the time when our immune system is most compromised. Therefore, this is the time to take specific precautions.
Here are a few tips guaranteed to reduce your risk of a lower immune system.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep disorders or lack of sleep can dramatically weaken your immune system.
- A proper diet is the best immunization. Preservatives, artificial flavors, and packaged foods fail to give the body the required nutrients to fight the cold weather and airborne viruses. Salads, fruits, vegetables and freshly prepared organic foods are most suitable for keeping your immune system working at its best. Try adding citrus fruits like oranges and lemons to your dietary intake. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, an essential element in boosting your immune system.
- Multivitamins can play a vital role in keeping you healthy. Have a pill daily to feel fresh and energetic. A body that takes a balance of vitamins and minerals will have a better chance of fighting off the common cold.
- Don’t forget to wash your hands with soap before meals and after using the restroom. Make it a habit for everybody at home.
- Exercise. I know how hard it is to get off your couch near the fireplace and convince yourself to jog, but exercise moderately at least thrice or four times a week. It helps generate endorphins. Endorphins strengthen the immune system by increasing production of white blood cells.
- Avoid coughers and sneezers. Germs are mostly transmitted when the infected person touches his or her eyes, mouth or nose, and then comes in contact with you. Eventually, you may touch your nose, or mouth and the infection will be transmitted.
- Humidify your house. Dry air can be very irritating to the respiratory passage. Use a humidifier to keep your respiratory system flowing.
- Last but not least, get a flu shot if necessary after consulting your doctor.
On top of everything keep yourself warm. Wear warm clothing and cover your head and ears when going out. Good luck and have a happy winter!!!
Physical health and fitness nowadays require some changes in our lifestyle, even more than the exercise or medication and supplements we take. Many common illnesses can be avoided altogether by making some small changes in our day to day routines. By implementing these eight simple steps, you will take the steps needed to stay balanced and healthy this Holiday season. However, we realize that many times more attention is required to get to that place of desired health and well-being. For more tips and tricks to maintain a healthy lifestyle, read our blogs.
