Staying healthy during the winter months can be difficult, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible! Winter typically means more time spent indoors and a time when germs are easily spread (as we all well know!)
Luckily, there are ways to prevent illness and stay healthy all year round, so you do things you’d like to do, rather than stay at home sick with a cold. Here are ways to help support your immunity during the cold winter months.
Winter doesn’t have to be the season you get sick!
If we can keep our bodies functioning well, there is a good chance we can survive winter with no more than a sniffle…
Below are a few handy tips to keep your immune system
in tip-top condition this year.
It can be hard to stay active and get the proper amount of exercise. But lack of exercise during these months can greatly contribute to the drop in our immune systems. Make time for your usual exercise routine, no matter how busy you are.Get plenty of sleep
Regardless of the season, make sleep a priority, so you don’t have to miss out on other fun activities because you’ve gotten sick. Getting six to eight hours of sleep as an adult is vital to your health and productivity.
Remember vitamin D
Because it is cold outside, it can be hard to get the necessary vitamin D to keep mood-boosting hormones level. A lack of sunshine and vitamin D may account for seasonal depression and other illnesses because we forget the importance of being in the sun. So, when the sun does make an appearance, bundle up and head outdoors for an hour or two a day, when possible, to make sure that you are still getting vitamin D. If this isn’t an option for you, consume foods that are good sources of vitamin D.
Get a flu shot and other vaccinations
Staying up to date on vaccinations during the winter months is vital. New flu viruses and strains can appear and run rampantly through the winter months. By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself, but other susceptible people like children and the elderly.
Remember fruits and veggies
Eating healthy in the winter doesn’t have to be tricky as there are still plenty of seasonal fruits and veggies available to make nutritious meals. While it’s tempting during the winter to fall in to a less healthy pattern, keep in mind that food can impact our energy levels and our immune systems. Make sure that treats are occasional and healthy foods are still a part of your daily routine.
Foods that are high in vitamin C and antioxidants have immune-boosting properties as well as the ability to fight disease-causing free radicals and inflammation inside your body. Avoid deep-fried or processed foods high in sugar and fat. Instead, choose colorful fruits and vegetables as well as potent superfoods like blueberries and pomegranates.
Studies show echinacea, garlic, and green tea can help prevent a simple cold, but they won’t do anything for you once you already have it!
Consider taking supplements
A multi-vitamin can be very helpful for boosting the immune system year-round, though if you are already following a well-balanced diet you may not need them. Increased consumption of zinc has been shown to help in fighting off respiratory viruses, while added vitamins C, D, and B12 may be beneficial.
Drink up
Water performs two important functions in your body: it carries oxygen to your cells and flushes bacteria and infection-causing toxins away from them. Keep your body well-hydrated by consuming 8-10 glasses water daily. While you’re at it, try to limit your alcohol consumption and avoid smoking, as both activities can dehydrate your body.
Many studies have been carried out linking emotional stress to lowered immune health. It’s important to be aware that how we manage our stress can impact how our immune system works. Deal with stressful issues before they have the chance to build up…
Even though winter can be the time of year that many people prefer to forget, try to think of the positive reason for the season.
Cold winter nights by the fire catching up with friends and family, winter sports and invigorating walks in fresh morning air that make you feel fully awake afterwards!
Winter can be a truly beautiful time of year, so keep yourself warm, happy and healthy to make the most of it.
