Along with the winter months also comes an increase in colds and flu. These few but effective tips can help you and your family feel good all season long.
Need more tips on how to stay healthy? Contact Adult Primary Care & Pediatrics today at (915) 225-4470.
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Find Ways to Stay Active
Many people find it harder to stay active during the winter when all we really want to do is get cozy and stay warm in our homes! Despite the cold weather, there is always a way to stay physically active.
Some activities you can do while staying warm indoors include:
- Yoga
- Boxing
- Weights
- Indoor swimming
- And much more
Drink Plenty of Tea
You can stay warm while also boosting your immune system with one simple habit: drinking tea! Black and green tea are some of the best beverages you can consume this winter. This is because these natural remedies are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant effects. Drinking tea is linked to healthier hearts and immune systems. To top it off, there is nothing more relaxing and good for the soul than drinking a warm cup of tea after a long day!
Make Stews With Vegetables for Dinner
Soups and warm stews are some of the best and healthiest meals to make for dinner. This is because most of the vegetables people use for meals, such as chicken soup or beef, contain healthy nutrients for the heart! These meals also tend to be very low in calories, which helps you stray from carb-loaded foods. It is also recommended to add other sources of heart-healthy foods, such as:
- Kidney beans
- Chickpeas
- Soybeans
- Lentils
Don’t Forget Your Whole Grains!
Whole grains are just as important as leafy greens and are sources of protein. Whole grains are naturally high in protein, helping you feel full and satisfied after meals. This makes it easier to maintain weight, in turn supporting your heart health! Some examples of whole grains include:
- Barley
- Brown rice
- Oatmeal
- Whole-wheat bread, pasta, or crackers
Make Sure to Get Plenty of Vitamin D
With less sunlight during the winter, it is crucial that you get as much vitamin D as possible. If it’s hard to make time to go outside, some good sources of vitamin D include:
- Low-fat dairy
- Fish
- Eggs
You can also consider a vitamin D supplement to ensure you are receiving enough! If you want to get the most out of the most natural source of vitamin D, it is recommended to stay outside anywhere from 10-30 minutes a day.
Stay Up to Date with Immunizations
The flu and other illnesses tend to spread and peak the most during the colder months. With that being said, consider getting your flu shot and other immunizations if you have not already done so! This is one of the most challenging flu seasons we have encountered in the past couple of years, so it is essential to get vaccines to prevent illness.
Practice Proper Hygiene
Lastly and most importantly, we must all be vigilant when it comes to proper hygiene. In addition to the flu, many other viruses, including RSV, COVID-19, and the common cold, have been circulating this winter. You can protect yourself and others from these illnesses by practicing the following:
- Regularly washing hands with warm water and soap
- Sanitizing surfaces regularly
- Wearing a mask in crowded, indoor areas
- Staying six feet apart from others
- Staying home if you are not feeling well
Get a Wellness Exam from an El Paso Family Physician
If you have any concerns regarding your health this winter, you can always come into our clinic with the confidence that you will receive the best care possible. Contact us by calling (915) 225-4470 to make an appointment today.
