A change in the seasons can pose a whole range of health and wellness issues that you may not even be aware of, despite your best intentions to eat well, sleep enough hours a night and get active. No matter how fit you are, or even if you think that you are in the best of shape, you are still at risk from seasonal illnesses and bugs that can wipe you out for days and weeks, leaving you feeling drained and tired. So, if the change in seasons sees you fall ill, then this year it is time to make a change for the better, and make sure that you are prepared and stocked up – just in case.
First and foremost, if you know that you always get ill when the seasons are changing then take preventative measures and be sure to book in for a checkup or appointment with your doctor or at your local health center. If you suffer from any aches or muscle pains, then consider making an appointment with flexcare physio to ensure that you are in tip-top health. Be sure to involve your kids, or elderly relatives too, so that you can rest assured that your entire family is prepared and safe. If a complaint, such as asthma runs in your family, then it is vital that you make an appointment as soon as possible. Remember that the quicker you act, the less likely that you or a relative are likely to fall seriously ill. So, no matter if you think that you only have a tickly cough, be sure to schedule in for your check-up so that you are ready just in case.
Eat and drink for the season
If you are keen not to fall ill and remain healthy during seasonal change, then you need to make sure that your diet reflects this. Be sure to eat for the season and stock up on local, seasonal produce – your bank balance will also thank you for this too, as this will cost you a lot less than your usual imported fruit and vegetables. If you suffer from hay fever, then buying seasonal honey can do the trick! Now that summer is on the way, be sure to fill your diet and shopping cart with fresh berries and fruits, that will boost your antioxidant and vitamin levels across your body and help with your overall immune system maintenance. Do not forget the leafy, green vegetables either, as these will provide essential sources of fiber and keep your digestive system working optimally. Finally, if you eat a lot of meat and fish then try to buy organic or grass fed over mass-produced sources. Try not to eat meat or fish every day, and opt for vegetarian and vegan options where possible to ensure that you consume a colorful and varied diet. Embrace the best that the season has to offer you, and you are less likely to suffer from those pesky seasonal bugs.
Rest up and drink up
If you want to ensure that you remain in optimal health now that the seasons are changing, then you need to make sure that you get enough sleep and stay hydrated. It might sound like an unusual combination but ensure that you get enough shuteye is beneficial for your entire body as lots of vital processes that your system needs to function and renew happen overnight. From burning fat to cell rejuvenation and your digestion, failing to get enough sleep can make you feel groggy, grumpy and upset as your body will be struggling to cope with managing these processes on top of your day today. So, if you struggle to relax and unwind, make sure that you remove any distractions from your bedrooms such as your cell phone and tablet, and switch the light off early – so that you fall into a deep, relaxing slumber. If you struggle to get all your fluids in or are a self-confessed caffeine addict, then this could be damaging your adrenal glands and affecting your mood and tiredness levels also. Be sure to keep a bottle to hand and make sure that you sip on herbal tea and water throughout the day, to ensure that you remain hydrated. Water is a better option than fruit juices, as it is calorie and sugar-free, plus it benefits your entire body. So get drinking and try to improve your hydration levels as this will keep you fighting fit and illness free.
Be aware of the illnesses around
If you want to ensure that you, your kids and your relatives do not fall ill, then you also need to make sure that you are aware of the illnesses and common complaints that are most common during this time of year. From food poisoning to hay fever and even coughs or the common cold, make sure that you visit the doctor or pharmacy if you feel that you are falling ill and make sure that you stay home and rest – as you will also prevent any germs from spreading around your workplace. Make sure that you wash your hands after visiting the bathroom and after you have prepared food. Also, ensure that any produce in your refrigerator is in date and has not gone off. Taking these precautions will ensure that you are less likely to fall ill.
If you find yourself suffering during seasonal change, and are usually struck down by illness or common complaints as the weather improves, then make sure that this year you take the right measures to keep you in good health. Schedule a health check and be sure to fill your refrigerator with seasonal fruit, vegetables and buy organic meat and fish where possible. Try to up your fluid levels by drinking enough water and be sure to get a good night’s sleep, by removing distractions from your bedroom. Finally, follow good practices and remain aware of any illnesses that are currently rife in your workplace or at your kids’ school. Stay home if you are sick and take time to rest up and recuperate.
