7 Steps To Strengthen Your Immune System In Cold Season
It is all well known that there is seasonal variation for incidence and prevalence of infections. Winter is one season where infection rates tend to become relatively higher. This happens due to cold weather, pollen dust, decreased humidity in the air etc. When temperatures are low, common health concerns are upper and lower respiratory tract infections that occur alongside runny nose, sore throat, dry or wet cough associated with fever, joint pains etc.
At such times, it is essential for one to take measures to avoid these infections. This can be done by avoiding the infective agent, and sometimes by taking measures to improve the immunity itself.
Here are a few tips to be followed to improve the inner immunity, especially in cold season:
1. Drink ample amount of water when it is cold outside
A minimum of 4 to 5 litres of water per day is essential during winters. There is excess excretion of the same in cold seasons, care should be taken so that one does not get dehydrated. Dehydration itself can reduce the immune strength in the mucous membranes and make it prone to infections.
2. Practice regular steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil
Due to cold season the humidity in the air is low, this dry air can make the respiratory tract dry and prone to contracting infections. Steam inhalation helps avoid infections by soothing the airway passage lining.
3. Consume herbal teas like green tea and chamomile tea
These contain powerful antioxidants which protect us from the harmful oxidants. They are produced in excess during the cold season.
4. Have bigger portions of fruits and vegetables
Citrus fruits like grapefruits, lemons, oranges have good amount of Vitamin C which plays an important role in preventing upper respiratory tract infections.
5. Eat more of immunity boosting foods
When foods like onion, garlic, pepper, ginger, turmeric etc., are included in your diet, they boost your immunity as they have anti-inflammatory properties as a part of their contents.
6. Protect your skin from dryness and injuries
Dryness of skin during this time results in cracks and wounds in the skin which can become doorways for infections. Subsequent to dryness, there is itching over the exposed skin which upon scratching can worsen the condition. Regularly apply aloe vera or paraffin based moisturizers to your skin to prevent such tendencies.
7. Practice healthy lifestyle
Practicing a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, good sleep hygiene, good physical hygiene, avoid smoking, avoiding stress etc., also has a very strong influence on the immune system not only in winter but all seasons.
Seasonal variations that influence the environment surely affects the body and makes it prone to inflammations and infections. Take good care and follow tips that are specific to the season. There is always a need to ask a doctor on adjustments or modifications in the dosage of medications taken for pre-existing illnesses
There is a pretty good chance winter can aggravate the disease process of a few illnesses. Hence, necessary interventions are to be made to boost the immunity during unfavorable seasons.
In case you want to know more about any specific seasonal health issue, you can consult an online Specialist, from anywhere, anytime per your convenience.
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