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Take Care This Winter

Posted on December 1, 2018 at 8:00 AM by Melissa Horton

Living in Iowa we all struggle with keeping healthy during the bitter cold winter months. We don’t focus on keeping ourselves healthy as we are busy going on vacations, visiting with family and eating our weight in holiday food and then it happens, we get sick. Here are some tips to help stay healthy this season.

Wash your hands. Germs can cause illness and are more lucrative since we are inside more and aren’t opening windows for fresh air. Wash your hands often with soap and water, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. 

Get a dose of vitamin D. Less sunshine during Iowa winters means less vitamin D absorption, so eat a variety of foods that include the nutrient including eggs, milk, fortified cereals, and fatty fish such as salmon and tuna. Vitamin D boosts your immune system and helps stave off the “winter blues.” It may also help to wear bright colors, take a trip to a warmer climate or have a summer themed party.

Dress warmly. Two or three thin layers of clothing are actually warmer than one thick layer. When out during cold weather wear a heavy coat, a hat, gloves or mittens, and a scarf. Limit your time outdoors and go inside immediately if your clothing gets wet.

Watch your step. Wear boots or shoes with nonskid soles, and avoid walkways that are wet, icy or snow-covered. Always hold on to safety railings. If you use a walker or cane, replace any worn tips. After being outside, leave wet shoes by the door to prevent tracking water throughout your home, creating a fall hazard.

Whether you spend this holiday season mostly indoors or out make sure to take time out of your busy schedule to focus on yourself.

Happy Holidays!

Robin Bartalos
Marketing Director
Prairie Hills at Des Moines
5815 SE 27th St.
Des Moines, Ia. 50320
https://dialretirementcommunities.com/our-communities/iowa/des-moines/prairie-hills/

Categories: Listen Up Blog

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