We winterize our homes and our cars, but we forget to winterize bodies. With the weather being cold and the sun barley popping out, it is time for some winter 411.
It’s just the middle of winter and by now you are probably feeling the difference in your energy level, skin, and your attitude.
With temperatures dropping and days being shorter, it has effects on a person’s serotonin levels. Here are my top tips to winter proofing your body.
GET MORE VITAMIN D
Studies say you need 10-15 minutes of sunlight twice a week to produce Vitamin D to keep your bones strong. In the winter (depending where you live) sunlight can be hard to come by. Believe it or not, you can get the UV light through the clouds. If being outside is not an option for you, make sure to eat Vitamin D fortified foods and take a great Vit D supplement. You need 400 IUs a day. Foods high in Vitaman D are fish, fish oil, breakfast cereals, dairy, egg products, fortified soy products, and mushrooms.
STAY HYDRATED
The air is dryer in the winter which can leave you feeling very dehydrated. You have dry skin and flakes in your hair. By now your skin is drinking your lotion. Drink plenty of water even when you are not thirsty, to ensure you stay hydrated. If you exercise, drink more water to make up for what is lost when working out. When you feel tired, it could be that you are dehydrated. So, instead of grabbing for a cup of java or a sports drink, drink some water instead. You can eat your water too. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetable to ensure the cells of your body is properly hydrated. Also, eating healthy fats will keep your skin and scalp supple.
BRAIN BOOSTING FOODS
Winter can make you feel blah. Just like a bear you would rather hibernate in your warm bed than go out in the cold. The lack of serotonin has a lot to do with your mood and energy levels. Eating the right brain boosting foods can change your serotonin levels in just 20 minutes. The brain can’t function without carbs. So eating the right carbs like whole grains, brown rice, and quinoa will give you that “pick me up” needed to function.
COMFORT FOOD
Winter can wreak havoc on your diet. Most people crave bad junk food.
Eating hot meals and soups helps warm your body up. Try to prepare your favorite hot comfort meals made over healthier so that way you won’t be left trying to work off the winter lbs. during the spring.
MANAGE YOUR MOOD
With serotonin levels being low it can put you in a bad mood. Having a positive attitude and self-talk is important to get through the tough winter months. Having positive visual reminders around your house helps remind you to be in a good mood. Some mood managers are a vision board with positive sayings, meditation, praying, reading a self-help book, or even talking to a friend.
Stay warm,
Marzia
