Be Healthy This Winter

By Chuck Kelly, Pharmacist

It was easy to take a daily walk in the spring and summer when we wore shorts and tank tops. Exercising in the winter is a challenge, because the weather can be rainy, cold or snowy. I live in the Northeast, where Mother Nature tends not to cooperate. But, it is important to find ways to be active every day.

Whenever possible, we should go outside, in order to ward off cabin fever. Being outside exposes us to sunlight, a source of Vitamin D, a vitamin our bodies cannot store. Vitamin D is necessary for healthy bone maintenance and probably plays a positive role in seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression.

Although you might have to bundle up before going outside, you will feel better for exercising. Exercise is more fun if you plan it around a daily activity, like shopping. At the mall, park your car at the far end of the lot and walk to the entrance. Use the stairs instead of the escalator. Walk a couple of laps around the mall.

In addition to exercising, we have to watch what we eat. Eating more and exercising less equals weight gain. So make better choices at mealtime. Saving pounds now can help you avoid the annual “I need to lose weight” resolution.

A healthy winter diet begins with moderation. Throw out the simple sugars and starches and eat more complex carbohydrates. You'll find a healthy menu planner at MyPyramid.gov. Consider taking a vitamin supplement and adding additional vitamin D during the winter months.

A fiber-rich diet has many benefits. It helps you feel full, so you won't eat as much. A high-fiber diet can reduce your bad cholesterol levels 5 to 15%, alleviate constipation, help prevent diverticulitis and relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. A healthy diet supports cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health. Diabetics will find it easier to manage their disease.

You should consume 30 to 60 grams of fiber daily. Fiber is a naturally occurring substance and essentially void of serious side effects. If you choose to use a fiber supplement, like Konsyl Original, remember to follow the label directions and take it with lots of water. A fiber supplement added to a diet rich in complex carbs and vegetables, will help you accomplish that goal.

Make the most of winter. Spring is on the way.