New Delhi: The winter season could mean a period of ‘hibernation’ for a lot of people. Cold weather can steal moisture away from the skin. The colder months can also make you crave heavy and fatty foods. But it’s important to avoid comfort foods loaded with extra calories, and stay active to keep fit, no matter what the season is. It’s even more important than ever to support your body and system - with cold and flu viruses being widespread in winters.
Ensuring that you keep up your healthy eating habits and get your 30 minutes of physical activity every day even when it’s cold outside is important. In fact, research has shown that inactivity can be a major cause of many adverse health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and some cancers, etc.
Tips to have a healthy winter
So, are you looking for some ways that can help you stay healthy during the cold and flu season? Dr Swamikannu M, Senior Consultant and Clinical Head - Internal Medicine - at MGM HealthCare, Chennai, suggests a few tips that can ensure that you have a super healthy and happy winter.
Diet and hydration: During winter, it’s essential to eat food rich in carbohydrates and proteins to provide energy to keep you active throughout the day. Also, eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C as it increases immunity, especially against flu. There is a tendency to drink less water in winter because of decreased thirst in winter when compared to summer. So, ensure that you keep yourself well- hydrated.
Physical activity: Exercising 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week is important throughout the year, but more so during the winter as we are more sedentary during the holiday season. Physical activity is important as it helps us remain active and increases immunity.
Clothing: Wear layered clothing to conserve heat. Two thin layers can be much warmer yet lighter than one thick layer because the air trapped between layers serves as thermal insulation. The less body area exposed, the warmer you’ll be, use jacket, scarfs, gloves, boots while going outside.
Skincare: Cold, breezy conditions outside can leave your skin feeling raw, while indoor heat zaps moisture from the air and from your skin.
Take the following steps to keep your skin soft and glowing during winter:
- Hydrate yourself
- Avoid hot water showers - though taking a hot shower might seem like a good way to warm up, hot water actually dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils. Instead, use lukewarm water
- Moisturise yourself after taking a bath
- Protect your skin from the chill breeze by wearing protective clothing
Tips to prevent flu
- First and foremost, follow hygienic practices like regular hand washing and using your handkerchiefs for sneezing.
- Seek prompt medical attention in case of flu symptoms like sore throat, dry cough, high-grade fever and breathing difficulty.
- The most effective method to control flu is influenza vaccine. The influenza vaccine can be administered above six months of age. It is mainly recommended for pregnant women, elderly people above 50 years of age and those who are suffering from diabetes, heart and kidney diseases and health care professionals.
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
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