Winter Wellness Tips

Elsa might’ve sung "The cold never bothered me anyway" in the animated musical Frozen, but not all of us can say the same. In fact, now that the hectic joy of the holidays has come to an end, you might be focused on how you’re going to stay well this winter. Luckily, we have four easy ways for you to protect your body, heart and immune system between now and spring.

Boost Your Immunity
Though cold and flu season peaks between December and February, there are still ways to protect yourself. One way is to make sure you and your family are up to date on your flu shots and any other vaccinations your doctor recommends. It’s also important to wash your hands often, be well-hydrated, get plenty of rest and—hear us out—even keep your nose warm. A 2022 study found that a drop in temperature of as little as 9 degrees can kill nearly 50% of the bacteria-fighting cells in the nostrils.

Layer Up
It can be hard to know how to dress, especially when the temperature fluctuates throughout the day. However, studies suggest that people should wear at least three layers of clothing. The first should be a base layer that wicks moisture away from your skin to keep you from getting cold. A good middle layer might consist of fleece, wool or other materials that retain heat. Finally, the outer layer should be a waterproof or windproof coat. And, don’t forget your hat, gloves and scarf! This is especially important for older adults, who might have trouble keeping warm due to decreased body fat, thinning skin or poorer circulation.

Watch Your Step
Icy walkways and snowy surfaces can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to clear driveways and walkways and wear shoes with treaded, non-slip soles if you’re venturing out into the cold. Remember, 97% of all weather-related injuries involve slips or trips on ice and snow, and they mainly occur among individuals 65 and older. Falls are so common in the winter that the CDC reports more than 800,000 people are hospitalized annually due to fall injuries, which often result in broken bones, hip fractures and head wounds.

Protect Your Heart
Studies have shown that Americans are up to 30% more likely to have a heart attack in the winter. This is because colder temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure and straining the heart. Cold weather also can trigger a release of stress hormones that affect blood clotting. People at higher risk include men 45 and older, women 50 and older and those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and pre-existing heart conditions. The good news is that you can reduce those risks by eating healthily, exercising, minimizing stress and getting plenty of sleep.

Your health is our top priority, and we hope these tips can help you take proactive steps this winter!

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