Our five tips to a healthier winter!
Although our southern counterparts believe we don’t really experience winter here in Queensland, the drop in temperature is enough to make us reach for our favourite cardigan or switch on our electric blankets every June! But what else should we be doing to stay healthy throughout winter, let alone during a pandemic? Malouf Pharmacies resident pharmacist, Mariella has these great tips to keep you fighting fit this winter:
- Hand hygiene is extremely important throughout winter. We’ve seen the importance of hand washing over the last year and it’s important to continue this throughout the winter months to minimise the spread of common infectious diseases. Wash your hands regularly, wipe down frequently touched surfaces and always remember to cover your mouth when coughing or sneeze into a tissue.
- Eat healthily and be active. We often reach for comfort food throughout the cooler months but it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly even during winter. Eat seasonal fruit and vegetables to strengthen your immune system and remember to stay hydrated with plenty of water. An occasional treat or glass of red is ok, just not on a regular basis. As always, they key is moderation! If you feel your diet is lacking, speak to us for advice on supplements to help in the meantime.
- Sleep is extremely important and is essential to staying healthy. A lack of sleep can affect your immune system making you more susceptible to catching an illness. According to the National Sleep Foundation between 7 and 9 hours of sleep is ideal for adults. Babies, young children and teens require even more.
- The flu vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against the flu. According to the Department of Health, on average, a vaccinated person is 40-60% less likely to experience the flu (based on infected people presenting to GPs or hospitals) than an unvaccinated person. Chat with our team in-store or book a vaccination service online.
- Check in on your health. It’s important to stay on top of regular health checks. Make an appointment with your GP or chat with your most accessible health professional, your friendly Malouf Pharmacist for health and medicine advice.