Fall has arrived along with pumpkin spice everything, the flu, and sweater weather. Follow these tips to stay healthy this fall and don’t let the cold get you down.
7 Tips to Stay Healthy This Fall
1. Get A Flu Shot
Don’t discount the value of a flu shot–many believe that they won’t do much or they’ll get the flu anyway. Getting a flu shot is easier than ever by going into your pharmacy and getting one right there and then.
Prevent sickness and being miserable by getting the flu shot. People over 50 should especially get one since their immune systems may not be as strong.
2. Take D Vitamin Supplements
Your easy access to vitamin D from the sun will be gone and you may even start feeling winter moodiness already. Taking vitamin D supplements can help you to keep happy and boost your immune system.
Vitamin D keeps your heart healthy too and helps to increase energy levels.
3. Avoid Catching A Cold
While a cold isn’t as bad as the flu, it’s still not enjoyable. One of the tips to stay healthy this fall is to wash your hands frequently and drink plenty of water.
Make an herbal tea to stay warm and stay hydrated. Be sure to also clean work and home surfaces regularly to stave off any bacteria lurking.
4. Get Outside
“But it’s too cold!” Fall temperatures are perfect for outdoor exercise. Summer can often times be too hot, so all you’ll need is a light jacket.
Going to a bike ride, a run, walking, or even picking up a sport like soccer can really help you enjoy the cooler temperatures. Be sure to get at least 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week.
Fall can also be perfect for hiking to see all the fall colors and experience nature as it changes.
5. Change Up Game Day Eating Habits
Fall is the time of football, football, and more football. It’s a great time to get together with friends and family and eat some tasty game day foods.
Unfortunately, if you’re eating like this 2-3 times a week, your weight can slowly creep up. Instead of going for chips and mozzarella sticks, try eating some veggies and ranch or hummus or simply cutting the pizza into smaller servings.
Be aware of what you’re eating and try to bring at least 2 healthy items to the table.
6. Don’t Get Pumpkin Spiced
Over the last few years, pumpkin spice everything has become a fad come September and October. While it’s a wonderful flavor, resisting it is one of our tips to stay healthy this fall.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes have 380 calories and 50 grams of sugar. That’s nearly twice the amount of sugar that is in a can of soda.
Pumpkin spice flavors can be good in moderation, but many items are sugary and unhealthy. Making homemade pumpkin flavored treats can be a healthier solution.
7. Visit the Library
During the winter months, we tend to bundle up and watch tv or Netflix. That’s fine, but doing that for hours on end may strain your eyes and can actually make it harder for you to fall asleep.
Go to the library and pick out a couple books to keep you busy. It will keep your brain stimulated and help relax you at the end of the day. Relaxation can reduce blood pressure levels and ease your muscles.
Resource
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/slideshows/10-tips-for-a-healthy-fall?slide=3