Although the winter is good for plenty of things, from skiing, to drinking hot cocoa, to enjoying the holidays with your family, there is one thing that winter is also notorious for,—illness. Many people find themselves much more susceptible to sickness during these cold winter months, and for that reason, it’s important that you know the best ways to stay healthy. After all, who wants to spend Christmas stuck in bed?
Here are some of the best tips for ensuring that you stay healthy this winter.
Bundle Up
It’s impossible to avoid the cold weather altogether. At some point, you have to bundle up and go outside to take care of your to-do’s. Whether you have an outdoor pond that needs to be cleaned, a driveway that needs to be shoveled, or a dog that needs to be walked, it’s essential that you bundle up anytime you head out.
One of the most important places to ensure you stay covered is your neck ears and head. Ideally, you should be bundled up everywhere, however, many people fail to remember that the top half of their bodies is the most sensitive to cold, and should therefore be carefully bundled up with the right winter accessories.
Eat Healthy Foods
Although vitamins are a great source of essential nutrients and vitamins, food is one of the best places to find them. Make sure that you eat a diet full of plenty of antioxidants and natural vitamin sources, and your body will be ready to fight off any illness that comes it’s way.
Although it’s OK to indulge occasionally on winter treats, try to live on a diet mostly full of lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables. If you can manage to make these types of foods 80% of your overall diet, then you’re already doing better than most people during the holidays.
Get Rest
Sure, sleep is what gives us energy and helps us avoid getting cranky. However, what many people don’t realize sleep is also good for is keeping your immune system strong. When you allow your body to rest at night you reset your body, and armor yourself with the strength it takes to not only stay warm but to ward off any illnesses that are being passed around. Ideally, you should get at least six hours of sleep a night, and in a perfect world eight.
Move More
Since it’s so cold, many people find themselves hiding out inside with very little movement. However, this isn’t doing your body any favors. Make sure that you stay active even during the cold months by going for walks, or going to the gym. The more active you can stay, the less likely you are to put on unnecessary holiday pounds which could be difficult to shed later on.