How to Stay Healthy, Fit and Safe During the Winter Season

How to Stay Healthy, Fit and Safe During the Winter Season
winter cold flu

Did you know that the common cold accounts for up to three years of the average person’s life? The reasons behind this rather depressing statistic are not easy to pinpoint, and in contrast to what many believe, have nothing to do with the chill in the air.

And while it is the most common illness among humans it does not occur as a result of wet hair, stress, a change in temperature, cold feet or bad weather. The fact of the matter is that when the weather forecast is at a low, our immune systems are weakened making us more susceptible to colds.

Don’t let cold and flu stop you this winter. Follow these tips and hints and you can continue to get more out life despite the weather forecast.

Important Tips

1. Hands are described as a germ factory for a reason, so be sure to wash your hands several times throughout the day using a sanitizer.

2. While warm soap and water also work, make sure you don’t rush the process and wash your hands for at least 20-seconds to kill all germs.

3. Use paper towel to dry your hands and close the tap so that you don’t come into contact with germs once again after washing them.

4. Keep your hands away from your nose and mouth wherever possible so that they don’t attract additional germs. And if you need to sneeze, try to do so in the crook of your arm so that the germs on your hands don’t come into contact with your nose.

5. Try and eat with a knife and fork so that germs are not transferred from your hands to your food.

6. Colds and flu are spread by organisms which can easily spread from surface to person and person to person. So sterilize any surfaces you believe that puts your health at risk.

Build Immunity

Exercise to build your immunity. Research suggests that by working out and making your heart pump a little faster you strengthen your immune system.

If you’re already sick, the general rule of thumb is that you can continue to do so if the symptoms are experienced above the neck, such as stuffy noses and sore throats. If, however, you have a temperature and are experiencing aches and pains in your body you should rest and give the gym a skip.

Eat and Sleep

Get at least eight to ten hours sleep a night to prevent your immune system from weakening and making you more susceptible to colds and flu in winter.

Eating large quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables supports your immune system, so make sure your diet is designed to protect you.

Think before you dip and be wary of sharing chip dips with friends as they may harbor unwanted germs.

Drink Water

Drink lots and lots of water. Eight to 10 glasses a day is recommended, especially during the winter. You’ll feel loads better when you are hydrated and if you have already gotten a cold, keeping hydrated has been shown to be an important part of the illness battle (but there may be a limit, so no need to go overboard).

Limit the ‘Happy Hours’

An excess alcoholic consumption can severely weaken your immune system. Add to that how much time you’re already spending with your (possibly sick) co-workers, and just cut back on the happy hour festivities until flu season winter passes.

Don’t Share Anything

Not your lunch. Not a pen. Especially not drinks of any kind. If you really want to avoid catching the office bug, you’ve got to be on the prowl for opportunities where germs will get you.

Pamper Your Skin

Skin becomes very dry and unhealthy in winter. To keep it healthy, increase the humidity in your home by adjusting the gauge on your furnace or placing a humidifier.

Using a good moisturizer will keep your skin healthy and prevent from damages.

Steer Clear

While it may seem perfectly obvious, stay away from people displaying symptoms such as coughing and sneezing.

And most importantly don’t worry, be happy. It’s a well-known fact that a positive attitude can boost your immune system.

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely of the author. My India My Glory does not assume any responsibility for the validity or information shared in this article by the author.

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