How Weather Affects Health (And What To Do About It!)
By Genevieve Cunningham
With fall just around the corner, many people are beginning to think about the flu. Signs advertising “the flu shot is here” can be found at multiple pharmacies and doctor’s offices. It’s interesting to note that this time of year is when the flu is most prevalent. In fact, each new season brings its own health risks to the table. Does that mean you’re doomed to suffer all year? Not necessarily. Take a look at how the weather can alter your health, followed by what you can do about it.
Summer and Winter are Known for Dehydration
Most people know that the summer months often bring dehydration. It’s hot! But fewer people are aware that the winter can also bring dehydration. Why? Because you’re less likely to feel thirsty when it’s cold out, and so you don’t drink enough. Dehydration is a serious problem, as it brings side effects such as headache, muscle cramps, confusion, and even death in extreme cases.
How to Solve the Problem
The only way to prevent dehydration is to drink enough water. No matter what time of year it is, carry a water bottle with you at all times. Sip, sip, sip your water even if you’re not necessarily thirsty. It can also help to eat water enriched foods such as melons, celery, and cucumber.
The Fall is Known for Sickness
When the winds turn colder, it seems to blow in the flu and plenty of colds. This is definitely not a new phenomenon, as people have considered autumn to be cold and flu season for years and years. Runny noses, stuffy heads, watery eyes, and the perils that come with the flu are all par for the course at this time of year.
How to Solve the Problem
It might not be possible to avoid every illness in the fall, but it is definitely possible to strengthen your body’s response. Make sure that you’re getting plenty of Vitamin C, and that you are taking your multivitamin every day. It can also help to drink immune boosting drinks such as chicken broth, herbal tea, and hot lemon water.
Drear Weather Brings Depression
Dreary weather -- think rain and gray skies -- can bring on the blues. Without the sun, our bodies don’t get enough Vitamin D, and this can cause poor moods. Don’t be surprised if you feel your mood slipping a bit after a few days of bad weather. It’s normal, but also something to watch out for so that you can protect yourself in the winter.
How to Solve the Problem
Make sure that you’re really looking out for yourself when the dreary weather arrives. Take a day off, take a trip to a place with sunshine, or just invite friends over to ride out the weather. Some very simple self-care can help to stave off the blues until the better weather comes back again.
Your health will definitely change with the seasons. But if you’re prepared, you can go with the flow and prevent many problems from happening. Use these tips to give you a head start, and you may be able to keep your body in better health all year long.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pittsburgh, Pa.