Winter Wellness

 Flu and cold season is upon us and it is time to protect yourself from becoming ill. Winter can be a trying time both mentally and physically. The days are darker, colder and shorter and our bodies become more susceptible to illness. While it sounds tempting to stay inside and hide from it all, be proactive about your health to ensure you make it through the winter months cold and flu-free.
Keep exercising!  It’s hard to get motivated when it’s cold and dark, but your body has to work overtime to get warm, so you will burn more calories on an early morning walk or run. Find an exercise partner to stay motivated.
Eat well! A key to healthy living involves eating seasonal ingredients. Winter is dominated by the earth element; so eating foods that heal right now include ‘earth’ items such as buttery root vegetables, onions, ginger, and garlic. Citrus and greens enhance benefits by helping prevent respiratory illnesses. Sweet potatoes contain vitamin A, which plays a vital role in the immune system and a high dose of vitamin B6 which helps reduce inflammation. Boost your dietary intake with dark, leafy greens and red and yellow vegetables, which are all high in antioxidants.
Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water each day. If cold water is unappealing when the temperature dips, try boiled water with a slice of lemon. The moisture will help make mucous membranes more resistant to bacteria. Drink a cup of chamomile tea regularly to elevate an antibacterial compound that can help fight infections brought on by colds.
Rest up! Regular sleep is vital to staying healthy. Too little sleep can lead to decreased physical performance, impaired memory, and has detrimental effects on the immune system.
Wash hands! Sounds simple but it’s the number one way to stop the spread of germs. Wash your hands every few hours – in particular when you return home from being out to prevent bringing home the bacteria which can cause illness.
Friends! There are many ways you can preserve your health, and protect your immune system. A very important way is in the power of friends. Having a strong network of supportive family and friends not only boosts your morale but your immune system. A real example of the mind-body connection at work. This is powerful… People who have good emotional health are aware of their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and have learned healthy ways to cope with the stress and therefore protect their immune system.
For more information, please call Compassionate Healthcare Associates at 661-295-7777.