Winter Health Advice from Our Private GPs
As temperatures fall, our bodies face unique challenges. Cold weather weakens immune responses, while reduced sunlight affects both physical and mental health. Staying proactive with winter health isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about thriving during the toughest months.
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, we are entering the time of year when illnesses and injuries tend to be more likely. General wellbeing can drop, thanks to the lack of sunlight and lower motivation to stay active, and many of us overindulge in the run-up to Christmas. However, there is still plenty that you can do to stay healthy at this time of year – here are some health advice tips from our private GPs.
6 Winter Health Tips
1. Keep moving
- Exercise is as essential at this time of year as any other – potentially more so, as we are leading more sedentary lives. If you’re not a fan of outdoor exercise in the cold and rain, look for indoor options, such as a gym, yoga, or exercise classes. Exercise will keep you physically healthy in winter – and also provide much-needed mental health support in the darker months.
2. Upgrade your outerwear
- It’s essential to keep leaving the house during the winter months. According to our private GPs, many people find this less appealing because of the weather. Having the right outerwear to enable you to do this can make all the difference. Waterproofs, a warm hat and gloves, boots that will keep your feet dry, and reflective gear if you’re heading out to exercise in the dark can all make it much easier.
3. Stay hydrated
- We often forget to drink as much water in the winter months because there’s no daily heat to remind us to do it. However, central heating can be very dehydrating, and if you’re regularly exercising, then it’s vital to ensure you’re replacing electrolytes and hydrating properly. Plus, all the parties during the Christmas season can involve alcohol, which has a very dehydrating effect on the body, making it even more important to drink more H₂O.
4. Focus on your sleep
- Many people find it easier to sleep in winter because it feels cosier and gets darker earlier. A good sleep routine is key to wellbeing in the winter months, according to our private GPs. Sleep allows your body to recover and is essential for mental health. To ensure you’re getting the best possible night’s sleep, limit your caffeine intake, have a regular bedtime, and reduce screen time before bed.
5. Eat well
- The food that we eat nourishes our body, fuels our immune system, and affects how we think and feel. Ensure that your diet has a good mix of protein and carbohydrates, as well as plenty of colourful fruit and vegetables, to boost your immunity. You can also add ginger, turmeric, and echinacea to help your body withstand winter germs – and take vitamin C supplements for extra defence.
6. Take vitamin D
- Most of us get the bulk of our vitamin D from sunshine, and there is less of that around in winter. Vitamin D supplements can reduce the impact of the lack of daylight on your body and keep you topped up so that you feel good and function well.
Common Winter Health Problems to Avoid
- Seasonal colds & flu: Cold weather and more time spent indoors with other people help the spread of viruses.
- Dry skin & eczema: Central heating and blustery winds take their toll on your skin. If your skin is on the dry side, it’s important to maintain a good routine.
- Winter blues (SAD): For some people, the reduced daylight hours of winter lead to a form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can be treated with light therapy.
- Weight gain: Comfort eating and lack of movement are easy to fall into.
- Stiffness: Cold leads to stiffer joints (arthritis and muscle aches).
|
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure“ – Benjamin Franklin’s words ring especially true in winter. Small daily habits make the biggest difference. |
When to See a GP
Whilst these little tips all help in our strive for health, talk to our private GPs if you are experiencing:
✓ A cough or fever that has been present for more than 3 days
✓ Increasing severity and limitation of mobility due to joint pain
✓ Fatigue or low mood that is unexplained and lasts more than a few weeks
✓ Skin conditions not improving with hydration
✓ Rapid weight gain or loss with no change in diet
Want to Know More? Visit One of Our Private GPs
Keep moving, eat well, and focus on sleep – this is just some of the winter health advice from our GPs. If you want to learn more about what you can do to stay healthy this winter, booking an appointment to see one of our GPs is the best choice. The advice will be tailored specifically to you and your situation. Get in touch today.
