Keeping Healthy This Winter

By: Dr. Dhanu Sant

Wash hands in warm, soapy water for 20-30 seconds.  Antibacterial soaps are not necessary and can contribute to community antibiotic resistance.  Keep skin moisturized as small cuts and dry skin can allow viruses and bacteria to get into the body and create infection.
 

Get enough sleep.  Sleep deprivation has been shown to increase susceptibility to illnesses.

Make soups and broths be part of the winter diet.  Warm liquids help break down secretions making mucous thinner. Onions in soup contain a compound called quercetin which is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and a natural antihistamine - nature’s Benadryl!

Wear hats, gloves and keep coats zipped up. These items of clothing keep our bodies from shivering. In addition, keeping the chest warm prevents the airways from becoming cold and irritated. Irritated airways and nasal passages are more prone to infection from viruses and bacteria. It turns out that our moms were right about zipping up our coats and wearing our hats!