How to Stay Healthy During Colder Months

January 28,2016

While dining with your family at a restaurant, someone sitting behind you starts coughing uncontrollably. Immediately, you start to panic. You don’t want a repeat of last year’s winter cold that lasted for several days. If you can relate to this scenario, you’re not alone. Many people worry about falling ill during the cold weather months.

To protect your immune system this winter, consider adhering to the following simple tips:

Slash Sugar Consumption

Consuming sugar can compromise your immune system. So, strive to avoid all of your favorite processed sweet treats such as: cakes, pies, cookies, candy and sugary sodas.

Stay Well Hydrated 

Some people mistakenly believe their bodies don’t require as much water during the winter months. Actually, to stay healthy, you need to drink as much, if not more, water during the cold weather season as you consume during the summer months.

Sleep at Least Six Hours

Skipping sleep increases your risk of succumbing to illness. For optimal health, endeavor to sleep at least six to eight hours each night. If you battle with insomnia often, consider avoiding caffeine after lunchtime. You might also wish to invest in some new window treatments in order to darken your bedroom at night.

Keep Hands Washed

To prevent the harmful spread of cold and flu viruses, wash your hands thoroughly several times each day. When traveling, take hand sanitizer with you.

Exercise Regularly

When the weather turns cold outside, some people place their workout clothes in storage. But, to boost your immune system, you need to exercise regularly despite plunging outdoor temperatures. Whenever you can’t exercise outside, consider visiting your local gym or working out to exercise videos at home. 

Don’t Smoke

If you want to avoid a lengthy, winter illness, stop smoking. This damaging habit drastically weakens your immune system. 

Staying healthy through the cold weather season can be challenging. Thankfully, by following the aforementioned tips, you can increase your odds of feeling good all winter long.