5 Tips on How to Stay Healthy in Winter

Who doesn’t love the festive cheer that comes with the end of the year? From Diwali to Christmas, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate. Unfortunately, it is also very easy to fall sick and miss the celebrations. With the COVID-19 pandemic still about, there’s even more reason to be scared of falling sick. That’s why it is important to stay healthy in winter. We’ve got some simple tips on how to stay healthy in winter so that you can enjoy the festive cheer. 

That doesn’t mean just wearing a jacket though. There are plenty of other things you and your family need to do to avoid falling sick. Here’re the 5 tips on how to stay healthy in Winter.

How to Stay Healthy in Winter

Winter and COVID-19 

Winter is generally influenza season. Commonly called “the flu”, this viral infection is extremely contagious during the winter since it can be spread by coughing. That’s why it is vital you and your family get the yearly flu jab from your doctor.  

But wait. What about COVID-19? Is it related to the flu? Well, both COVID-19 and the flu have some very common symptoms: cold, fever, headache, coughing and weakness in the body. At first, it can be hard to tell the difference between the two. 

That’s why it is vital you take extra precautions to stay healthy in winter this year. You never know if someone has the flu or COVID-19. With that in mind, here are some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy in winter.  

Cultivate Healthy Habits 

American novelist John Irving once said: “Good habits are worth being fanatical about”. Since your body’s immunity is your first line of defence, it is vital you cultivate healthy habits to build a strong immune system. That means you need to say goodbye to smoking, excessive drinking, snacking and poor sleep schedules. 

Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep every night and remember to eat healthily. It’s also vital you exercise. Otherwise, it is very easy to put on weight over the holidays.  

Eat Consciously to Stay Healthy in Winter 

As this report from ABC news shows, we tend to crave more comfort food during winter. It’s not always a good thing though, as some comfort foods tend to deprive the body of vital nutrients. That’s why you need to be very conscious of what you eat. That said, you don’t have to deprive yourself of the chance to eat what you love, find the right balance.  

Where possible, consume fresh fruit and vegetables especially with food like Pizza and pasta (really easy to make at home!). If you love to snack, try switching to granola bars, wholegrain bread snacks and dry fruit. That way, your body is getting everything it needs while you get to enjoy something tasty, keeping you healthy in winter.  

Turn to Supplements 

Sometimes, your diet will just not suffice. In order to ensure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need, it’s worth taking supplements if your doctor approves. Vitamin C supplements during winters boost immunity and aid the body to battle symptoms of cold and flu. 

Since Vitamin D is obtained from direct exposure to sunlight, it might be difficult to soak up the sun on grey winter days. Vitamin D supplements help absorb other vitamins like vitamin A, iron, and calcium. Vitamin E is another excellent topical supplement to add to your personal care routine, as it helps prevent dry and flaky skin, a common symptom in cold weather. 

Maintain Hygiene 

The best way to avoid communicable diseases is good hygiene. Remember to wash your hands with hot water and soap, as dirty hands are the primary cause of many diseases. Wash as soon as you return home, handle pets or any other objects from outside your house. 

Other critical ways to maintain your hygiene include letting in natural light whenever possible. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and will rid your room of odour, harmful bacteria, and moulds. Also, ensure you always wear a mask when outside.

Take Care of Your Mental Health 

Seasonal Affect Disorder is a condition caused by lack of sunlight exposure that leads to anxiety and depression. Winter blues will affect your physical health, and vice versa. So, you need to ensure you maintain a healthy body as well as a healthy mind. 

Spend time doing yoga, meditation and other exercises. Listen to uplifting music, and take time out to do things you enjoy. Remember not to overwork, and to spend time with your family and friends. If you aren’t happy, find out why and make changes. 

As a Nature article pointed out, “a small seasonal effect will probably contribute to bigger outbreaks (of COVID-19) in winter.” Therefore, it is vital you and your family take adequate precautions to stay healthy in winter. It is also a good time to check your healthcare plan and ensure you have access to not just health insurance, but preventive care measures as well.  

That’s why Onsurity is the “preferred healthcare partner” for over 700+ SMEs and start-ups. Our digital employee healthcare plans are not just economical, but also come with added healthcare benefits like doctor teleconsultations and online medicine stores. To find out more, visit our website today.