Follow these simple tips to ensure you don’t get left out in the cold this winter.
1. Eat Well
It can be easy to slip into the habit of choosing comfort foods during the colder winter months, but this is the time to be stocking up on food that is high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Fruit and vegetables that are high in vitamin C such as oranges, pineapple, cabbage and cauliflower are all excellent choices during the cold and flu season. Vitamin C helps to maintain healthy bones, muscles, blood vessels and also allows your body to absorb iron. It is also very important to stay well hydrated so try and drink at least 6-8 glasses of water daily.
2. Vitamins and Supplements
If you have a busy lifestyle and are finding it particularly hard to incorporate adequate vitamins and minerals into your diet, then taking multivitamins and supplements can help keep you fighting fit throughout the year.
Probiotics that contain ‘healthy bacteria’ are known to not only be beneficial to your digestive system but also strengthen your immunity to infections and viruses.
Mr Vitamins recommend supplements like Ethical Nutrients Immune Defence to promote a strong immune system. Taking such supplements can not only prevent cold and flu from occurring, but can also aid with symptoms and speed up the recovery process.
3. Keep Active
Having your beach body ready may be the last thing on your mind during the colder months, but keeping fit and active during this time of the year has its benefits. Regular exercise greatly improves circulation which in turn helps white blood cells, which fight off diseases, move around the body.
Exercise is also a beneficial for your mental wellbeing. Being stressed can often weaken your immune system which can then lead to catching a cold. Working out releases much needed endorphins, helping you to stay positive and relieving stress.
4. Stay Germ-Free
Being diligent when it comes to personal hygiene is crucial when avoiding the dreaded winter sniffles. Ensure that you are washing your hands or using antibacterial gels before eating or drinking and after contact with others who may have cold or flu. This is even more important for those who come into contact with a large number of people on a daily basis through work. Washing your hands thoroughly and using disposable tissue to dry them can significantly reduce the spread of germs and viruses that may lead to sickness and infection.
5. Rest Up
Not getting enough shut eye can be detrimental to your immune systems so it is vital to sleep well during cold and flu season. Aim for approximately 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night and try your best not to overwork yourself physically or mentally.
It’s also extremely important that you allow yourself time to recover if you do indeed get ill. Not allowing yourself adequate time to build yourself back to perfect health will not only prolong the recovery process, but will have a negative effect on your stress levels.
