As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop we are entering the time of year when illnesses and injuries tend to be more likely. General wellbeing can drop, thanks to the lack of sunlight and lower motivation to stay active, and many of us overindulge in the run up to Christmas. However, there is still plenty that you can do to stay healthy at this time of year – here are some health advice tips from our private GP’s.
6 Winter Health Tips
- Keep moving. Exercise is as essential at this time of year as any other – potentially more so, as we are leading more sedentary lives. If you’re not a fan of outdoor exercising in the cold and rain look for indoor options, such as a gym, yoga, or exercise classes. Exercise will keep you physically healthy in winter – and also provide much needed mental health support in the darker months.
- Upgrade your outerwear. It’s essential to keep leaving the house during the winter months. According to our private GP’s, many people find this less appealing because of the weather. Having the right outerwear to enable you to do this can make all the difference. Waterproofs, a warm hat and gloves, boots that will keep your feet dry and reflective gear if you’re heading out to exercise in the dark, can all make it much easier.
- Stay hydrated. We often forget to drink as much water in the winter months because there’s no daily heat to remind us to do it. However, central heating can be very dehydrating and if you’re regularly exercising then it’s going to be vital to make sure you’re replacing electrolytes and hydrating properly. Plus, all the parties during the Christmas season can involve alcohol, which has a very dehydrating impact on the body, making it even more important to drink more H2O.
- Focus on your sleep. Many people find it easier to sleep in winter because it feels cosier and gets darker earlier. A good sleep routine is the key to wellbeing in the winter months, according to our private GP’s. Sleep allows your body to recover and is essential for mental health. To make sure you’re getting the best possible nights sleep, limit your caffeine intake, have a regular bedtime and reduce screen time around bedtime.
- Eat well. The food that we eat nourishes our body, feeds our immune system and affects how we think and feel. Ensure that your diet has a good mix of protein and carbohydrate as well as plenty of colourful fruit and vegetables to boost your immunity. You can also add in ginger, turmeric and echinacea to help your body withstand winter germs – and take vitamin C supplements for extra defence.
- Take Vitamin D. Most of us get the bulk of our Vitamin D from sunshine and there is less of that around in winter. Vitamin D supplements can reduce the impact of the lack of daylight on your body and keep you topped up so that you feel good and are functioning well.
Want to know more? Visit one of our Private GP’s
Keep moving, eat well and focus on sleep – this is just some of the winter health advice from our GP’s. If you want to learn more about what you can do to stay healthy this winter, booking an appointment to see one of our GP’s is the best choice. The advice will be tailored specifically to you and your situation. Get in touch today.