As winter comes closer and closer, staying healthy and keeping up with our workout routines can seem more difficult than usual. The cold can make us want to ditch our healthy eating habits, reduce the amount we are exercising, or not being outside in the sun, all becomes harder to achieve, so staying healthy requires us to put more effort into our health. In this blog, there are 5 tips to help you stay healthy in the cold winter months! 

1. Eat a healthy balanced diet
   • Eat more fruits and veggies in the winter to keep your immune system boosted. So, try to replace the sweet or salty foods with healthy fruits and vegetables to still absorb healthy nutrients, even in the cold months.
2. Get outdoors when the sun is out
   • It is easy in the winter months to stay inside because it is cold out, especially in Wisconsin. Trying to get outside can help keep your vitamin D levels regulated when the sun is out and can boost your energy and immune system. Try going for a winter walk/hike, ice skating, or even sledding!
3. Drink plenty of water
   • It’s easier to stay hydrated in the summer when we sweat more and feel thirstier. It is still very important to stay hydrated in the winter, especially if you are exercising outside with multiple layers on. You still sweat and it is important to replenish that fluid. 
4. Keep your skin safe
   • In the cold months protecting from the sun, dry skin, or even frostbite is very important. Making sure that you have many layers and effective warm clothing when you will be outdoors. 
   • Wear sunscreen on your face even though it is winter. The sun can still reach the skin on your face, especially when the sun is reflecting off of the snow. 
   • Always make sure you moisturize your whole body in the winter to keep your skin hydrated and healthy to avoid dry skin or developing eczema. Maybe even get a heavier face cream if your skin gets excessively dry in the winter months. 
5. Find healthy ways to manage your stress
   • Often in the winter we are forced to stay inside because of the cold. If you’re staying inside, take that time to take care of yourself, stay active, or find friends to enjoy down time with. 

Strive for progress, not perfection!

Kayla Withrow