Health Matters

Staying Healthy as the Seasons Change

By Kennika Freeman

Welcome back BSU, hope you all had a great summer, however it's now time to hit the books again and staying healthy, fit and energized is just the way to start off the semester!

Seasons change, and your body and mental outlook change with them in predictable ways. Winter can create an enchanting, snowy wonderland. Yet as the weather changes, your body may experience changes too, resulting in reduced energy and immunity, weight loss or gain and dry skin. Here are some things to be aware of as you become more conscious about how to stay healthy this winter season.

Stay Well Hydrated

Even though you might not think you need more water when the temperature cools, your body still needs plenty of moisture to stay healthy and keep your skin glowing. Skip the salt as often as you can to avoid bloating, and eat juicy fruits whenever possible. Drinking at least seven to 10 glasses of water per day is the minimum; you'll need more if you're exercising regularly, and water will also help you recover from workouts easily.

Try a 24-hr Detox

Getting your body in shape for the fall season isn't only about working out properly; a detox can help flush out toxins and waste from your body, and even though it can be uncomfortable at first, it's a great way to ‘jumpstart' your metabolism and undergo a natural cleanse. Try just a sip of fresh lemon early in the morning, and snack on only fresh fruits, water, and tea throughout the day. You'll notice a surge of energy just a few days later, and can eat light and hearty meals after the detox is over!

Cook up a Storm!

Fall is a great excuse to get into the kitchen and start baking or cooking up some healthy recipes. Look for fresh fruits and veggies of the season to incorporate in your dishes; apples, peaches, pumpkin, squash, zucchini, and corn are all in season and ripe for picking. Head out to the Farmer's Market if you can for a roundup of the latest, or just start thumbing through some healthy cookbooks for inspiration and ideas.

 Avoid Drafts and Breezes
          Temperatures are dropping, evenings are getting cooler, and in some places breezes are picking up as seasonal winds begin to blow. During this time, you need to be mindful of breezes that make you feel chilly. To avoid getting sick, keep your neck, wrists, and ankles from being exposed to wind and drafts. This is a likely way for an illness to start.

Be Aware of Dryness

During autumn, slowly increasing wind and cold begins to create dryness in the air, which affects your skin and Lungs. The effects of the natural tendency toward dryness in autumn are magnified as you begin to turn on the heat; at home, at work, and in the car; to take the chill out of the air. Your skin and lungs don't like dryness, so it's important to drink enough fluids to make sure they don't get dried out. Water is especially important!

Following these health tips will not only ensure great health, but you'll feel rejuvenated and energized; see you guys in class!