With all of us bundling up together indoors, germs spread more quickly, and more of us don't feel our best. This winter, keep your body and mind healthy as you brave the cold. Learn how to stay healthy during wintertime and encourage your loved ones to do the same. When everybody is taking health precautions, that caution benefits the entire population. Keep doing your part!
Fruits and vegetables are powerful sources of vitamins and antioxidants, which will strengthen your immune system in the coming winter. Vitamin supplements are great in a pinch but getting them in through your diet is more effective. Make crunchy salads chock-full of leafy greens and eat a few pieces of fresh fruit every day. (If you don't have reliable access to fresh fruit, drink juice!)
Keep up with regular doctor's appointments throughout the winter. If you start to feel poorly, talk to them about your symptoms and what you can do to combat them. Sinus infections are common during the winter, and with medical assistance, they can dissipate within a week or two. If you feel crummy and stuffed up from Thanksgiving through New Year's, though, talk to your doc about the possibility of chronic sinusitis and what you can do about it. Be proactive with your health when you're feeling ill!
As the days get shorter, many of us feel symptoms of depression. If you suspect that you have seasonal affective disorder (aptly called SAD), talk to your doctor and consider investing in a light therapy lamp. Take advantage of the sunlight while it's shining, and turn on the lamp for an hour or two when you're feeling down due to the darkness.
Over the past two years, we've learned just how crucial proper handwashing can be. Keep yourself and others healthy by keeping your hands clean. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds before eating, after using the restroom, and after you've been in high-touch public areas. If you don't have ready access to a sink, carry hand sanitizer with you.
Winter weather tempts us to bundle up and stay on the couch, but too much inertia can get us down in the dumps. Get moving! Getting 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise per day will keep your body limber and your heart in top condition. Plus, exercise releases endorphins that make you feel happy and upbeat. Regular exercise will keep both your body and mind healthy.
This winter, be proactive about your health by paying extra attention to your body and mind. Feed your body healthy foods, get it out in the sunlight, and keep it moving all season long. Learn how to stay healthy in the wintertime; it takes a little extra effort, but you'll enjoy the benefits in the long term.
