Were you aware that the average person has a common cold for a total of three years out of their entire lifespan? The exact reason for getting sick during the winter months is unknown, although it’s not specifically due to the cold air. When the weather forecast is at a low, we experience weakened immune systems, which in turn causes us to be more susceptible to catching colds. These five tips for staying healthy during the winter will help your wellbeing—both physically and mentally.
1. Surround yourself with high-quality air.
When the weather is chilly, people have a tendency of spending more time indoors. Indoor air quality is usually not as good as outdoor air quality. Indoor pollutants, mold, bacteria, and allergens can decrease the state of your physical health.
If you vacuum at least twice per week and clean the filter regularly, you can improve the air quality in your home. You should wash your sheets weekly, as well as purchase and turn on a dehumidifier. Also, replacing the filter in your air conditioner (not every state or country is cold during the winter!) once per month, and making an effort to spend some time outdoors will contribute to helping your overall wellbeing.
2. Select the right health insurance.
You should have the best health insurance coverage throughout the entire year—a solid health plan is extremely important during the winter season. Health insurance covers dental, medical, hospital, mental health, and specialist services. While you peruse plans and compare health insurance, you’ll want one to select the coverage best suited for your needs.
When trying to find health insurance, you can compare health insurance with iSelect. You are able to choose whether you need insurance for only yourself, you and your spouse, or your entire family. Their site makes it easy to navigate, compare, select, and save on health insurance policies.
3. Eat mindfully.
It’s not uncommon for people to gain weight in the winter. You’re indoors more, you exercise less, and you indulge in food more than you normally would, thanks to holiday meals and family get-togethers. Being mindful of food is crucial. The winter tends to boost our carbohydrate cravings, but you want to calm them down. Eating a breakfast that is rich in protein will help you manage your natural winter cravings for carbs.
You’ll also want to eat foods that are high in fiber, Omega 3 fatty acids, and add mushrooms to your meals. Omega 3s are a healthy fat found in seeds, nuts, fish, and many other types of food. They help decrease levels of depression, which can be more pronounced amid winter months. Several species of mushrooms contain properties that strengthen the immune system—including white button and shiitake ‘shrooms. Fiber is good all around for digestive health and in the winter our digestive systems are noted to slow down.
4. Consider platelet-rich plasma therapy
Winter is the ideal season for trying platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP.) PRP Therapy reduces backaches and joint pain—a common winter ailment. As far as chronic pain, this form of therapy can even resolve long-term bodily discomfort.
PRP treatment has cosmetic uses, too. Our skin can crack or get itchy as a result of cold, brittle air. This non-operative procedure will rejuvenate your skin. PRP is a lasting treatment with very short recovery time. Always consult with your primary care doctor for medical advice before scheduling an appointment.
5. Get your sweat on.
Indoor exercise will help you get your sweat on. Getting an adequate amount of exercise throughout the winter months is of the utmost importance. Exercise speeds up your metabolism causing you to feel less sluggish and it releases ”feel good” chemicals, like endorphins and serotonin—making you a happier person overall.
Moderate to intense exercise will suffice. Get your sweat on for 30-to-60 minutes, five-to-seven days per week. Outdoor exercise is even better. Dr. Furlong states, ”There is no bad weather, just bad clothes.” For soreness, Epsom salts in a relaxing bath will ease your muscle aches.
Staying healthy during winter may be more challenging, but it isn’t impossible. Following these five tips will assist you in staying in the best health possible.
