The changing of the seasons brings much more than cooler weather. As we transition from summer to fall, the days start to get shorter and the cold starts to set in. What does it do to our health? There are many different things that bring about the colder months besides the cold.
First of all, it kicks off the dreaded flu season. So when fall hits, it’s a good time to get your annual checkups along with your flu shot. The end of the year is usually a good time to get all of your doctor’s appointments before your deductible starts. Some insurances also cover your annuity, so getting this before the annuity runs out with you is always a good thing to check off your list.
Allergies to mold, dust, and fall pollen can cause wheezing and coughing that never seem to go away. If you’re not sure if it’s allergies or a cold, it might also be a good time to see your doctor for allergy tests before you suffer through this high allergy season.
Fall is another time to start working on ways to boost your immune system. This can make sure you wash your hands often. Also drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water will also help hydrate your body inside and out. The colder months can wreak havoc on your skin. Making sure you get enough vitamin C can also help boost your immunity. Some good immune-boosting foods are garlic, ginger, spinach, and almonds.
Eating healthy with seasonal foods is also good for you. Fall foods like pumpkin are rich in vitamins A, C, E, potassium and fiber. Other seasonal foods include beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, eggplant, cabbage and squash. Even though the weather is colder and you’re not going outside as much, you’ll want to make sure you’re watching your portions. As well as making sure you eat healthy balanced meals and don’t overeat like a couch potato.
When the weather gets colder, it can be harder to get outside to exercise or do activities in the summer. It’s good to find new ways to exercise. Book a new class at the gym or a kickboxing class. Find a way to keep your body indoors while the weather is cold. This is also a good time to watch your screen time. It’s normal for screen time to start increasing as the days get shorter and colder.
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Cold weather brings with it the need to find a new skin care routine for your entire body. It’s good to focus your skincare on your face, but the rest of your body needs it too. Colder weather can dry out your skin, so hydration will be key during these months. As well as moisturizing. It is best to have enough water inside and outside. Your hair may also need extra care from dry, cold air. Finding a good conditioner or hair mask can help moisturize your hair as well.
Summer time is approaching. Make sure you follow the regular schedule so you won’t be late when daylight savings happens. Waking up at the same time every day as well as going to bed at the same time can really help your circadian rhythm during these dark months. Less sunlight means we get less natural vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for a healthy lifestyle. If you are not getting enough natural vitamin D, you may need to consider taking supplements. Foods high in vitamin D are cod liver, salmon, tuna and milk. When it’s sunny outside, even if it’s a little cold, try to get outside when you can. Natural vitamin D is best absorbed by your body. Don’t forget that even though the sun isn’t as strong as it is in the summer, your skin can still get sun damage. It is still recommended to wear at least 15 SPF.
Fall cleaning can be just as beneficial as spring cleaning. Wipe the most touched areas of your home. mobile phone, keyboard, kitchen area, door handles. Keep hand sanitizer close at hand. This can also be about going through clothes, reorganizing your closet so you can take out the summer clothes and bring out the winter clothes. On colder days, open your home to let the breeze through your home to let it out before the extreme winter.
Fall can also be a time for you to prepare for possible extreme weather. If you live in a place where extreme weather is inevitable, now is the time to start stocking up. This could be making sure you have enough batteries, a handy paddle, canned goods and bottled water.
These are just a few things you can do to help prepare you for a healthy fall and colder months ahead.
Low vitamin D levels are a risk factor for many diseases. Â Foods high in vitamin D are cod liver, salmon, tuna, and milk.