Winter is coming! As the summer season wraps up, we will start to notice the days getting shorter and the air getting cooler. But…what does this mean for our health?
The Flu
They don’t call winter the Flu Season for no reason!
Influenza is a highly contagious disease caused by the Influenza virus. Scientists believe that its prolific spread during the colder months is due to the drier air, which allows germs to float around for hours before infecting unsuspecting patients. The result is a debilitating illness that can cause several symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, fever, chills, head and body aches and, in some cases, vomiting and diarrhoea. More serious cases can lead to hospitalisation and, at worst, death.
The best defence against Influenza comes from the Influenza vaccine. Other defences include practising good hygiene habits such as avoiding close contact, washing hands thoroughly and avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth. A good way to mitigate flu symptoms is to simply stay healthy; this includes a balanced diet full of essential vitamins and minerals, lots of exercise, ample amounts of sleep and cutting down on alcohol.
For more information on Influenza, its health impacts and preventative actions, please click here.
The Common Cold
The Common Cold is a viral infection that impacts the upper respiratory system. Contrary to popular belief, it is not directly caused by the chilling temperatures of winter. It spreads the same way Influenza does; through droplets sneezed or coughed into the air before being breathed in. Patients usually experience mild symptoms, including a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, occasional fever, headaches, cough and sneezing.
Unlike Influenza, there is no vaccine against the Cold. More emphasis, therefore, is placed on hand-washing, avoiding close contact and avoiding touching the eyes, mouth and nose. Good defence strategies also involve boosting the immune system to quickly fight off any infection; this involves having a balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and selenium. A good night’s sleep, as well as plenty of exercise, would also be beneficial.
Dry Skin
It’s no secret that the air is drier around the winter months. This can lead to red, rough, raw and itchy skin.
The most effective method of combatting dry skin is through constant moisturisation. Moisturiser creams and balms will generally work to rehydrate the skin. Another good way to ensure the skin stays supple is to limit baths and showers to 5-10 minutes (as excessive bathing can strip oily layers from the skin’s surface), minimise soap usage, only use sponges and brushes sparingly and make sure to pat the skin dry with the towel rather than rubbing it.
If you’re spending a lot of time indoors, make sure you keep a humidifier on inside your room.
And never, ever, scratch your skin. You’re only making things worse!
Which Products Can Help?
There are plenty of Wealthy Health products that can assist with boosting the immune system, as well as soothing dry and itchy skin:
All Day Vitamin C is specially formulated to help supplement daily Vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that assists with healthy immune function.
Natural Vitamin E contains Vitamin E, a nutrient that assists with bodily functions including skin health and the immune system.
Bio-Maxi C is formulated to boost Vitamin C intake. Vitamin C can assist with a healthy immune system.
Organic Spirulina 1000mg contains a wide range of essential vitamins, minerals, trace elements, unique phytonutrients and amino acids to support the healthy function of the body.
Triple-Active Emu Balm contains emu oil, an ingredient that has been used by the First Nations peoples of Australia to treat a range of skin ailments.
Triple ACTIVE with 100% Pure Emu Oil Liniment contains emu oil, which can be applied and massaged into the skin to assist with softening and moisturising.
References
Australian Government Department of Health (2021). “Flu (Influenza)”. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/flu-influenza
Robson, David (2015). “The real reason germs spread in the winter”. BBC Future. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20151016-the-real-reason-germs-spread-in-the-winter
Australian Government Department of Health (2021). “Flu (Influenza)”. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/flu-influenza
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (2021). “Healthy Habits to Help Prevent Flu”. Retrieved at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm
Healthline (2017). “The Secrets to Never Getting Sick”. Retrieved at https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/cold-flu-secrets
Government of Western Australia Department of Health (2021). “Common Cold”. HealthyWA. Retrieved from https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Common-cold
HealthEngine (2008). “Cold and Flu Prevention”. Retrieved from https://healthengine.com.au/info/cold-and-flu-prevention
HEALTHbeat (2011). “9 ways to banish dry skin”. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/9-ways-to-banish-dry-skin