7 ways to avoid colds this winter

With the cold weather and winter months approaching, you may be expecting the first cold of the season to arrive any day- but it doesn’t have to be a guaranteed event each year!

 1. Get some fresh air  

Despite popular belief, it is not necessarily the drop in temperatures at this time of year that causes colds. During the winter months, we naturally hibernate a little more and studies have shown an increase of time indoors creates a rise in illness-causing bacteria. Shutting yourself away, with the windows closed and your heating turned up high decreases the air quality and helps bacteria multiply, increasing your chances of getting a virus.

2. Stop smoking

Smoking not only has a negative effect on the vital organs in your body, it also has an impact on your immune system. This is from the harsh chemicals and tar contained in the cigarettes, minimising the amount of white blood cells in your body; the antibodies that help to fight off the harmful bacteria which cause you to become ill.  

 3. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet ensures your body is receiving all the vitamins and nutrients it needs to function. Vitamins such as A, C and D are great when increasing your immune system’s ability to fight off bacteria. There are many foods that provide your body with vitamins, the most well-known ones include; garlic, spinach, yogurt and citrus fruits. You could also add different spices to your meals to give yourself an extra health boost.

4. Dirt isn’t all bad!

It has been proven that exposure to germs helps to build a healthier and stronger immune system. People living in rural areas are less likely to become ill compared to those living in houses that are cleaned on a regular basis, this is because their body 

adapts to different bacteria.

5. Regular exercise

Exercising outside in lower temperature also helps to improve your immune system, as your body inhales fresher air than it would if you are working out in a hot gym. You also increase the amount of Vitamin D that you’re receiving, boosting your immune system's ability to fight off potential colds and flus. Going on walks or runs when it is cold is a great way to stay fit and healthy.

6. Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep has a negative impact on your immune system as your body hasn’t had enough time to rest. Getting a good night's sleep won’t prevent you from becoming ill, however it does help to reduce health problems such as an increase in blood pressure, your body having a lack of energy and helping to maintain your weight.

7. Laughter

Laughing is a great way to get your heart racing without carrying out exercise! It is also a way to help de-stress your body, keeping your blood pressure low and giving your immune system a healthy boost.

Sources

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2073465/Dont-want-catch-cold-Better-stay-indoors-then.html