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It’s long been known that the winter season brings with it less daylight, chilly winds, and an imbalance in general mood and physical well-being. Winter months also create formidable challenges for the immune system by augmenting the risks of various disorders, such as flu and seasonal affective disorder. According to Dr. Neha Mishra, Consultant- Infectious Diseases at Manipal Hospitals Old Airport Road, Bangalore, the prevalence of flu infections surges during winter. Moreover, these infections affect people of all age groups.
In addition, the chilly weather can make exercising and traveling considerably more difficult, which can, in turn, affect a person’s physical as well as mental well-being. If not managed and regulated, these factors can gradually lead to feelings of isolation, helplessness, and loneliness, which is why self-care is so necessary during this time of the year. To know more book an appointment at the best hospital in Bangalore.
Ways to Practice Self-Care During Winter
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Exercise Regularly
Regular exercises during the winter months have been found to be quite effective for keeping the body warm. Working out during winter allows the body to burn more calories, which subsequently leads to more heat generation. This also enables quicker fat loss in a short period of time. Furthermore, exercising daily during this time of the year improves blood circulation and strengthens the immune system, which is necessary for preventing winter sicknesses like the cold and flu.
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Eat Smart
The consumption of processed foods must be reduced during winter as these foods augment the chances of falling sick by weakening the immune system. To keep diseases at bay and bolster the functioning of the immune system, seasonal vegetables, such as cauliflower, beetroot, carrots, and cabbage, along with a protein-rich diet must be consumed.
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Get More Sunlight
Wintertime is generally associated with less sunlight which is considered one of the major factors fuelling the incidence of depressive symptoms and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Besides, the lack of adequate sunlight inhibits the production of sufficient amounts of vitamin D which consequently leads to calcium deficiency. Thus, to maintain optimal health, it is important to get enough sunlight and if required, consume vitamin D supplements after consultation with a doctor during winter months.
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Fix Sleep Cycle
In winter, the body produces more melatonin, which is the hormone that promotes sleep. As a result, people usually feel sleepy and tired throughout winter which, if not managed properly, can lead to fatigue. Fixing the sleep schedule and ensuring 7-9 hours of sleep every day is critical for mitigating the feeling of tiredness during the cold season.
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Stay Hydrated
People don’t feel very thirsty during winter and thus, don’t drink enough water. This causes dehydration, which is a common issue faced by people of all ages during this season. Moreover, due to the lack of adequate water intake, the airways and sinuses become highly vulnerable to infections, such as colds and coughs. Hence, to avoid infections and flu, people should consume enough water and stay hydrated at all times during winter.
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Regularly Moisturize Skin
Grooming is essential, especially during the winter months when the cold air draws out moisture from the skin and makes it dry, flaky, and itchy. Moreover, if the skin is not moisturized and hydrated regularly, it may split and start bleeding, which may, in turn, result in an infection. Furthermore, practicing proper hair care is also necessary for preventing dandruff and flaking of the scalp during this time of the year.
Department of Infectious Disease
Manipal Hospitals
