Cold Weather Health Myths
By Sara Butler
Fall is officially here, and that means cold winter weather is right around the corner. Yes, the season of seasonal colds and bulky coats will be here before you know it. That makes this the perfect time to brush up on some cold weather health myths that you may be under the impression are true. Make forgetting these myths part of your preparations for winter!
Myth No. 1: Exercising in the Cold is Bad for You
In all actuality, research has found that when you exercise outside in the cold, your times tend to be faster and your body tends to burn more calories. You may want to make sure you protect your skin from the cold temperatures by wearing appropriate clothing, but otherwise, you are good to go!
Myth No. 2: You Won’t Have Allergies in the Winter
Since everything outside is in a state of hibernation you may think you don’t have to worry about allergies in the winter but this isn’t the case. Indoor allergies can be worse in the winter due to the inability to let in fresh air from the outside!
Myth No. 3: Vitamin C Will Prevent Colds
Vitamin C will not prevent you from being sick, but it can help to lessen the severity and the length of the cold you might be suffering from. If you’re getting enough in your daily diet you shouldn’t have a problem!
Myth No. 4: Sunscreen is Unnecessary in the Winter
The sun may actually be more intense and direct in the winter than in the summer. This can expose your skin to even more harmful rays, and the ice and snow can help to reflect these rays onto you so that you’re getting it from all angles. Make sure to wear sunscreen if you’re going to be outside in the winter.
Myth No. 5: Alcohol Warms Your Body
It is true that alcohol can make your skin warmer, but it accomplishes this by causing blood to rush to your skin and away from your internal organs. This means your core temperature will actually drop even if the temperature of your skin is warmer. It’s probably best to avoid alcohol when you’re going to be outside in the winter. Combined with slippery surfaces, that seems like a risk to your safety.
Did you think any of these winter health myths were true? Well, now you can start the season off right by understanding the truth and taking measures to stay healthy all season long!