Summer has well and truly left us now. Beach towels, stone fruit and flip flops are now replaced with warming casseroles, cosy blankets and extra layers of clothing. Our everyday routine undergoes a seasonal makeover four times a year, and in many ways our approach to health should too.
The health habits we adopt during Summer may no longer serve us in the chillier Autumn weather. Here are our top recommendations for staying healthy during the cooler months:
Get Your Flu Shot
Influenza, or what we commonly refer to as ‘the flu’, is particularly common during Autumn and Winter. It is caused by a group of viruses that are not treatable with antibiotics. Take steps to protect yourself from getting the flu and ward off seasonal sick days with an influenza vaccine at Elanora Heights Medical Practice.
We also recommend covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, as this can prevent the spread of viruses. And don’t forget to regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
Stay Hydrated
We know how easy it is to forget to drink water during the colder months since we tend to feel less dehydrated and don’t perspire as much. Nonetheless, it’s important to stay on top your 2 litres a day. Chamomile, mint or fresh ginger tea are warming and hydrating alternatives to drinking cold water. And if tea doesn’t appeal, keep a water bottle next to you at work. Setting hourly reminders on your phone can be an effective way to remind you to drink frequently throughout the day.
Eat A Well-Balanced Diet
As the months get cooler, this is a great time to introduce hot meals like soups, stews and casseroles into your diet. Be sure to include seasonal staples like dark leafy greens, root vegetables and citrus fruits to feed your body the necessary vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Slow cookers are a fantastic way to gently cook your food throughout the day in time for an early dinner.
Winter-Friendly Physical Activity
It’s normal to fell less motivated to exercise during the cooler weather. That’s why we recommend keeping your exercise indoor. Opt for at-home workouts, where you can follow guided yoga tutorials online, or commit to a regular pilates or weights class at the gym. Alternatively, rug up and go for an afternoon walk with a friend!
Be Wary Of Household Mould
Mould is a fungus that thrives in damp and dark places around the home during the colder, rainy seasons. Mould is commonly found in wardrobes that don’t have adequate ventilation or any part of the home that is exposed to moisture, like the bathroom or laundry. There is evidence to show that mould can contribute asthma, runny nose, respiratory infections, coughs, headaches and nausea. Ventilation, heating, dehumidifiers and keeping areas clean and dry are practical and effective ways to reduce the harm of mould on your health.
Book an appointment with one of our knowledgeable GPs at Elanora Heights Medical Practice to develop a personalised health action plan to optimise your health this Autumn and Winter.