Keep Warm, Keep Well
This Winter
Nobody looks forward to winter, cold, dark nights, not to mention the increase of becoming ill, writes Tracy Hargreaves
It’s that time of year when everyone seems to get ill. The outside temperature fluctuates from being mild, wet and windy to freezing temperatures and as our immune systems are usually lower, germs spread as we stay indoors more over the winter months.
But there are some things you can do to keep yourself healthy. The days and sunlight might be shorter, but it’s important to get out in the fresh air. Wrap up warm and go for a walk, even if it’s just for 20 minutes at lunch time or a cycle round the park at the weekend with the family. Regular exercise boosts your immune system, so not only will you feel better, but it will also help you get a good night’s sleep.
We all want to eat comfort food when it’s cold outside, which isn’t always the healthiest. Have a go at making your own soup. Winter vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, swede and turnips are full of vitamins and great thrown together to make a tasty vegetable soup. It doesn’t take much time and can be frozen so there’s no waste. Plus, you can enjoy experimenting with lots of different flavours.
It’s often hard to drink water when it’s cold, but try warm water from a recently boiled kettle and add lemon juice. This can help flush the digestive system and rehydrate the body and is great if you are feeling sluggish.
Germs are often spread through our hands, so make sure you wash them regularly, particularly if you have a cold and use tissues rather than a handkerchief, so you can throw them away. Wash hands after using public transport or being at the gym and get yourself some hand sanitiser.
Do something you enjoy. Every day, do things that make you feel less stressed, such as having a hot bath, meeting up with friends, or watching one of your favourite films. It’s also important to have a laugh.
Get your sleep. Sleep deprivation equals an increased chance of getting sick. More and more studies are showing that the one essential for a healthy life is adequate shuteye and we all know how much better we feel when we have slept well.
Ginger has natural antihistamine properties so if you are suffering from a cold or the flu, it can help. Just a teaspoon of the juice mixed with a spoonful of honey can help to cure a sore throat and ginger tea is a very popular winter drink because it helps to ward off congestion and sinus problems.
Don’t let winter get you down. Just a few simple tips will help you stay healthy and keep the bugs at bay.
