It seems like common sense to try keeping warm this winter, but it’s more important than you may think. Keeping your body warm and nourished can help you stay healthy during the winter and let you enjoy your favorite activities and gatherings. During winter, the body is at greater risk of exposure to viruses and bacteria mainly because of lower temperatures. If the environment is colder, some viruses tend to survive more easily and spread in close quarters indoors. On top of this, the body’s immune response during colder months is less robust than in times of the year when the temperatures are warm. Thus, doing your best to stay warm while keeping your health in top shape during winter can help stave off potential illnesses that are common during the colder season. Here are a few ways to keep warm and healthy this winter.
Maintaining a room temperature
Depending on your comfort levels, it’s best to keep your home at around 61-72 degrees Fahrenheit. Some people have certain tolerances to heat and cold, but keeping it within these ranges can help your body regulate the temperature and prevent the risk of illnesses such as flu, colds, or fever.
Wearing warm clothing
You can also wear warm clothing both indoors and outdoors. It’s ideal to have several layers if the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, it can be more convenient to take off one layer at a time depending on the temperature. Wool and fleece are effective in preserving your temperature, so finding natural or synthetic options for this fabric can keep you protected. Consider wearing these under layers around the house and when you go outside. And don’t forget accessories like warm hats, gloves, and socks!
Healthy meals during winter
What are some ideal healthy meals to keep you protected in winter? You can incorporate soups with vegetables and lean protein to serve a double purpose – keeping you warm while maximizing your nutrition intake. Most soups are inexpensive to make, especially using ingredients such as lentils, chicken noodles with vegetables, or minestrone. Soups during winter are also filling, which can be considered a great meal during colder months.
Staying active and keeping safe
Winter days can be slower, but this doesn’t mean you should neglect physical activity. You can still do at-home exercises, go to the gym, or go on walks wearing appropriate clothing. Make sure to bring things that can keep you sanitary such as a mask, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes, and practice social distancing if you have immunity-related risks.
Schedule an Appointment
Staying healthy during every season is important. If you need fast and effective care this winter, our team is here to help. Schedule your appointment at Wellcare Urgent Care by calling or filling out our online form.