As the weather starts to get colder and the days get shorter, it’s important to start thinking about how to protect your body from the harsh effects of winter. From chapped lips to dry skin, there are several ways that winter can take a toll on your health. But don’t worry; we’re here to help! Here are six ways to protect your body from the harsh effects of winter.
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Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise!
One of the best ways to protect your skin from the drying effects of winter is to keep it moisturised. Invest in a good quality moisturising cream and apply it liberally all over your body, especially after showering or bathing. If you have particularly dry skin, you might also want to consider using a humidifier in your home to help add some extra moisture to the air. Dry skin not only looks and feels uncomfortable, but it can also increase your risk of developing skin conditions such as eczema.
Cover Up
Another way to protect your skin from the cold is to make sure you cover up when you go outside. Wear a scarf or a hat to cover your head and face, and ensure you’re bundled up in warm clothes. The more skin you can keep covered, the less likely you are to experience dryness or irritation. Unfortunately, the cold air on your skin can also increase your risk of getting eczema and significantly increase the discomfort of any existing skin conditions.
Use Lip Balm
Chapped lips are one of the most common winter complaints, but they’re easily preventable with lip balm. Choose a lip balm with SPF protection for an added layer of defence against the sun’s harmful rays (yes, even in winter!). Apply lip balm regularly throughout the day, especially before going outside or before bedtime. Your lips are more at risk of cold sores in the winter, so make sure you’re taking steps to keep them protected and moisturised. Cold sores can appear in the corners of your mouth and cause pain and discomfort, so prevent them with regular lip balm application.
Use Mobility Aids
If you are not too steady only your feet, especially when it’s snowing or icy out, then mobility aids like walking sticks can be your best friend to help keep you steady and stop you from breaking anything in a winter fall! If you already use mobility aids like sticks or wheelchairs, then mobility2you.com has some good tips for winter-proofing them, so that they can continue to work safely for you, and keep your body healthy, no matter what the winter weather may bring.
Drink Plenty Of Water
It’s important to stay hydrated during the winter months, just like any other time of year. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day and avoid sugary drinks like soda, which can contribute to dehydration. In addition, drinking water will help keep your skin healthy and will also help prevent chapped lips. Many people think that since the weather is cooler, they no longer need to drink as much water; however, during the winter, your body still needs to stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending time outside in the cold.
See Your Doctor Regularly
Another one of the best ways to protect your health during winter is to see your doctor regularly for checkups and vaccinations. Getting a flu shot is one of the best things you can do to avoid getting sick during the winter months, so be sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. If you don’t want to visit your doctor, you may even be able to get a flu shot at your local pharmacy. So be sure to ask next time you’re there. Additionally, keep an eye on any existing health conditions and ensure you’re staying up to date with your medication.
Increase Your Vitamin And Mineral Intake
The colder weather can lead to a decrease in vitamin and mineral intake, as fresh fruits and vegetables may not be as readily available. Consider supplementing your diet with vitamins or adding extra servings of canned or frozen produce to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs. This will help support your immune system and keep you feeling your best during the winter months. Additionally, consider adding foods high in vitamin C to help support your immune system and ward off any potential illnesses. Vitamin D supplements during the winter are also crucial to ensure that your body is getting enough of this important vitamin, as sunlight can be limited during the colder months. Make sure you’re taking steps to increase your vitamin and mineral intake to keep your body functioning at its best during the winter.
In conclusion, there are many ways to protect your body from the harsh effects of winter. The six tips mentioned above are just a few ways to keep your skin and immune system healthy during the colder months. There are many other ways to also keep your body healthy, so find what works for you and stay prepared for the winter weather.