Tiffiny Hall shares five simple tips to avoid getting sick this winter.
I said brr, it’s cold in here. And out there. It seems there is no escape from a dribbly nose and some shivers as we scuttle around, head deep in a scarf and beanie. It’s the time of year where we embrace layers, appreciate lasagne more and also start passing around those pesky colds from our family, friends and colleagues.
Take action quickly with these top tips below and make sure you eat the right foods that will help beat those bugs if they do come knocking on your door.
- Vegelicious and nutritious
The trick is to surround yourself with the good in the world, and I mean a whole bunch of veg and nutrients. Include heaaaaaaaps of foods high in Vitamin C in regular rotation. Think citrus fruits, kiwi, berries, broccoli, cabbage and parsley.
- Get spicy
Cook with spices that boost our immune system as they are rich in antioxidants and full of anti inflammatory properties. It’s time to get friendly with onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, rosemary, turmeric, cayenne pepper, allspice and curry powder.
- Up your Vitamins
Vitamin D is the sunshine vitamin and important to strengthen our immune system. We are often deficient in winter so try and get outside a few times a week for 20 minutes, even if it feels like there is no sun out.
It is still working its immune and bone strengthening magic. Echinacea can also help support your immune system and help reduce your length and severity of your cold.
- Keep moving!
I know it’s hard to stay motivated when you’re sure your hands could pass as icicles but exercise is vital to keeping colds at bay. The more physically fit and active you are, the less likely you are to catch colds. Your lounge room is your gym and your body your equipment. Rain is no longer an excuse.
- Zzzzzz
Make sure you’re catching some quality sleep and getting 7-8 hours a day. Sleep is vital for the mind and body and can help with stress levels (stress is no good for our immune systems) By giving your body a rest overnight, it allows it to repair and keep your immune system strong. If you need, take an arvo nap. Your body will thank you.
