A health expert advises maintaining a ‘crucial’ habit often neglected during winter that can help combat the flu.
While the festive season is often celebrated as the most wonderful time of the year, it can be a challenging period for those suffering from influenza.
This year, flu season has arrived earlier than usual, with countries like the UK, Canada, and Japan already experiencing a significant rise in cases.
The surge is primarily due to a strain known as subclade ‘K’ of H3N2, a variant of influenza A.
The United States is also witnessing a rise in respiratory illnesses. According to the state’s Department of Health, New York recorded over 24,000 flu cases and nearly 1,400 hospitalizations for the week ending December 6.
In contrast, the same week the previous year saw 12,000 cases and approximately 850 hospitalizations.
While vaccination, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet are essential, there’s another key method to boost our immune systems.
This method often gets neglected during the dark and cold winter months.
Fitness experts from Live Football Tickets, in collaboration with Kieran Sheridan, physiotherapist and founder of GulfPhysio, emphasize the importance of an often-overlooked lifestyle habit.
The habit that often diminishes in frequency during the winter is exercise.
Cold weather leads to reduced overall movement, including a decrease in light activities like slow walking and housework.
This decrease results in more time spent sitting and sleeping, which can become problematic.
The benefits of regular physical activity are well-known and become even more critical in winter.
As noted by the experts at Live Football Tickets, movement enhances the production of mood-boosting chemicals like endorphins and reduces stress hormones.
“While motivation may dwindle during the darker months, even small amounts of regular exercise, such as quick stretches, can boost energy and alleviate anxiety,” they advise.
Additionally, exercise plays a role in strengthening our immune systems.
“A sedentary lifestyle further weakens your defenses, making you more vulnerable to colds, flu, and other winter illnesses,” the experts explain.
“Even light to moderate exercise is essential, as it facilitates the efficient travel of immune cells throughout the body, ensuring your immune system remains robust and resilient all winter long.”
Physiotherapist Kieran offers valuable advice for exercising safely in winter.
Despite low motivation levels, reminding oneself of the reasons for exercising can help initiate movement.
Furthermore, Kieran emphasizes the importance of not skipping warm-ups.
“Cold weather can lead to tight muscles and joints, increasing the risk of injury if you start exercising without a proper warm-up,” he notes.
For an effective warm-up, begin with light activities like walking or gentle stretching, focusing on areas such as your back, legs, and shoulders, which are prone to stiffness in cold weather, he suggests.
Additionally, be prepared to adjust your exercise plans based on the weather, especially if you choose outdoor activities.
“If roads are wet or slippery due to frost or rain, always assess the conditions,” Kieran advises.
Alternatives such as swimming, yoga, using exercise bikes, or strength training are great substitutions for outdoor running.
In the end, any exercise is better than none.
If you decide to brave the outdoor elements, ensure you are adequately prepared.
Kieran recommends wearing shoes with good grip and steering clear of icy and wet streets when possible.
Finally, the health expert highlights that cold weather can exacerbate joint pain, especially for individuals with conditions like arthritis.
To safeguard your joints, consider using supports such as knee braces or ankle sleeves.
Regular stretching and using a foam roller can help maintain muscle flexibility and prevent stiffness around your joints.
“Also, remember to stay hydrated – drinking plenty of water helps keep your joints well-lubricated,” Kieran adds.