Winter Health Tips

As winter sets in, we are becoming more prone to infection and fever. It is important that we be extra cautious about what we eat and do this winter. It is mandatory that we follow the winter health tips religiously as certain changes occur in our bodies as the barometers dip. These changes are more pronounced in the temperate zone where the temperatures are in the freezing range.
It is very common to hear parents complaining that their child has yet another runny nose. Others abhor the winter and the allergies they set in. While that may be true, the more important question is, what you can do to prevent in the first place.

Here are some winter health tips to help you brace yourself for the winter:

Strengthen the immune system with a balanced diet. Vegetables and fruits are important all 365 days of theyear.Look for fresh produce and seasonal items, as far as possible. Steam cooks the veggies if you can’t eat them raw due to cold weather. Hot broths and cooked vegetable salads can be a part of a healthy meal. Dry fruits and nuts can be used as a snack. They not only provide energy but are also filled with nutrients. Carbohydrates are needed for energy and strength. So include brown rice, whole wheat bread, rotis or porridge in your meals.

One of the ayurvedic winter health tips is that green tea or herbal tea with or without honey keeps you warm in the mid morning or mid evening. Some spice like pepper, ginger and garlic are believed to give warmth during winter.

Our bodies generate a lot of energy as a protection against the cold weather and chilly nights. Hence one of the most important winter health tips is to stay hydrated. Apart from water, warm soups can be taken during meals or during snack time. Though alcohol can give warmth, don’t go overboard with it. If you must drink alcohol, take it in small quantities occasionally. Don’t use alcohol as a stress buster or to forget your worries.

Exercise is important. It not only burns calories but also keeps you warm and uplifts your mood. You need extra exercise if you have indulged in those tempting hot and high fat comfort foods. An active warm up is essential. The activity needs to be sufficiently energetic and prolonged to ensure that the whole body is warm. The activity can vary from a stretches of the lower limb muscles to a brisk walk or jog for 15 to 20 minutes.

A hot shower is very comforting. Massage of the body has several psychological benefits and is soothing. Finally, dress appropriately. Avoid overheating.

The above winter health tips will ensure that allergies and cold will be kept at bay to help you to remain healthy and trouble free through the winter.