Cold-Weather Wellness: Tips for Staying Healthy this Winter
The winter season is a time when days are shorter and more time is spent indoors, which means higher exposure to other people and increased chances of catching viruses that might lead to contracting a cold, the flu, or COVID-19. Discover the cold truth about winter wellness with these tips for navigating cold weather while staying safe and maintaining your health. Prioritize supporting your immune system and self-care for optimal energy and health.
Stay Active
Less sunlight and colder days might not be the most motivating combination to inspire a daily walk or workout, but staying active during the winter is important. According to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle-strengthening activity each week. While these are guidelines, any daily movement helps. Even if you can only get a 15-minute walk, any type of movement can be beneficial and help reduce stress.
Eat Healthy and Nourishing Foods
Focus on eating a healthy, nutrient-rich diet incorporating foods that are in season and warm dishes in the winter months. Vitamin D-rich, immune-forward, and mood-boosting foods are great options. Consider warm root vegetable dishes, soups, sweet or savory oatmeal, and stews. Astera offers a Dial-a-Dietitian program, in collaboration with Abbott, which features free nutrition support for patients. Call (800)-858-8386, extension 506, to connect with dedicated dietitians for personalized guidance on managing symptoms, weight, and overall well-being through proper nutrition.
Get Immunized
A Flu vaccine can help reduce your risk of getting the flu and spreading it, and can decrease the severity and side effects if you get sick. Even if you got your shot last year, it won't protect against this year's flu virus, which is why it’s important to get vaccinated yearly. Consult your doctor about getting vaccinated and what vaccinations are recommended for prevention and optimal health.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands is the most effective way to protect you from keeping bacteria and viruses off your hands and catching illnesses. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your car or bag if you’re on the go and unable to wash your hands immediately.
Disinfect All Surfaces
Be mindful of disinfecting your home, office, and car surfaces as often as possible, especially high-touch areas like door handles, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, etc. It’s imperative to use a cleaning solution that uses at least 70% alcohol for effective disinfection.
Avoid Touching Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
It’s important to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, even if you just washed or sanitized your hands thoroughly. Your mucous membrane is an entry point easily susceptible to viruses.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated has a variety of benefits and should be a priority, even during the winter months. Water is the best source to stay hydrated and it’s important to ensure you consume enough water daily. Vegetables and fruits are also good food sources for hydration.