As the climate slowly gets cooler we know that out favourite season Winter is here. This is the season of eating healthier, enjoying seasonal produce and enjoying more and more outdoor activities. However a sudden drop of temperature may also bring along seasonal ailments which especially affects the elderly, young children and those who already suffer from co-morbidities. This season increases incidents of cold, cough, flu and aggravates health conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis, eczema, asthma, etc. Statistics also suggest that more people tend to suffer from heart attacks in winter. Here are some essential health tips to keep your body healthy this winter and fight seasonal infections:

• Have dry fruits
  Dry fruits and nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews naturally increase your body temperature. When added to your winter diet, dry fruits can work wonders for you because they have more nutrition, vitamins, minerals, and fibre than any other fresh fruit.
• Eat seasonal root vegetables
  Many winter root vegetables are known for being carb-heavy and starchy. However, winter root veggies are complex, slow-burning carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates help you feel full and satisfied and won’t result in sharp blood sugar rises. Some common root vegetables include carrots, radishes, beetroot, sweet potato, purple yam, etc.
• Maintain high hygiene
  Wash your hands regularly to keep infections away. Wash well before eating, after using the washroom and touching any contaminated things. Encourage young children to wash their hands after coming home from outdoors.
• Stay hydrated
  You may not feel as thirsty in the winters. However, having enough water intake is one of the best things which you can do to avoid many of the winter ailments.
• Eat fresh fruits
  Boost your immunity by including more and more seasonal fruits that include oranges, strawberries, amla, papaya, kiwi, etc. in your diet.
• Have enough fibre
  People have a tendency to overeat during the winter months since it’s vital to stay warm. However, this does not mean you eat only calorie-rich foods and fatty foods. Include more plant based foods that include soluble fibre and help aid your digestion.
• Have leafy green vegetables
  Dark leafy greens are high in vitamins A, C, and K as well as a number of other nutrients. Include spinach, fenugreek leaves, mustard greens, etc in your diet that not only improve your bone health but also aid in preventing dry skin during the winter.
• Include Omega-3 fatty acids
  These are the good fats found in foods like fish, nuts, and seeds of plants. In addition to lowering a person’s stress levels, they aid in reducing the body’s levels of joint pain and stiffness.
• Use herbs and spices
  Include spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and onions in your diet to fight inflammation, maintain the health of your nasal passages, and boost your immune system.
• Exercise regularly
  Wintertime is a time when it’s normal to feel a little lethargic. However, it’s crucial to maintain a moderate amount of physical exercise to boost your immunity and fend off the seasonal illnesses that are typical during this time of year. Try some indoor exercises like yoga, aerobics, strength training, and other similar ones if the weather outside makes it impossible to exercise.
• Moisturize your skin
  Your skin may become dry, dull, and hard throughout the winter. To maintain it smooth and radiant, cover your skin with a high-quality moisturiser and sunscreen. This is especially important for people suffering from psoriasis and eczema.
• Keep yourself warm
  Keep your airways open and your immune system healthy by dressing for the weather and arming yourself with coats, mufflers, caps, and other protective gear.

Stay healthy and protected by following the above health precautions. Further boost your immunity by enjoying seasonal foods in moderation. Have a healthy and safe winter!

The post 12 Tips to keep you healthy this winter first appeared on KDAH Blog - Health & Fitness Tips for Healthy Life.