The most beautiful and comfortable time of the year, the winter season has arrived. While the cold in Myanmar is generally mild, this is a period where we should not underestimate the health risks posed by seasonal changes and the proliferation of various germs. The transition, marked by cooler mornings and evenings coupled with high daytime temperatures, causes imbalance. Furthermore, reduced humidity weakens the immune system, making both adults and children more vulnerable to illness. To prevent this, we must adopt a preventive health mindset within our families and establish healthy eating and lifestyle habits during this early winter season.

Common Winter Health Issues

During winter, which is favorable for germs, the risk of person-to-person infection from coughing and sneezing is high. Moreover, the cooler weather often leads to spending more time indoors, being sedentary, and lacking physical activity, which can contribute to various illnesses. The most common issues are:

• Colds and Flu: Caused by the dramatic temperature changes between cold mornings and warm afternoons.
• Skin and Lip Dryness: The natural moisture in the skin depletes easily due to lower humidity, leading to dryness of the skin and lips, causing discomfort and itching.
• Respiratory Allergies: Fog, dew, and sometimes air pollution in the mornings can trigger allergic symptoms in those with asthma or chronic cold/cough issues.
• Mental Health Concerns: The shift in seasons (end of monsoon, start of winter) can sometimes cause discussable mental health issues like depression and lack of happiness.

To combat these risks, it is important for you and your family to proactively prevent potential illnesses and gradually adopt a healthy lifestyle and diet.

Correct Eating and Lifestyle Habits

When we talk about living and eating healthily, while eating expensive superfoods or going to the gym is good, often just focusing on freshly cooked meals in your environment and simple indoor exercises is sufficient. For a healthy lifestyle during this winter, consider the following:

Boost Immunity and Warmth: Consume internal warming drinks like hot water or ginger tea, and make sure to drink warm soups that include various vegetables.

To prevent colds, sneezing, and coughing: consume seasonal fruits rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges.

Skin Hydration: To maintain supple and beautiful skin, you can use products like Aloe Vera or Vaseline. Additionally, natural oils like coconut oil applied to dry areas, hands, and lips are effective in preventing dry and cracked skin, keeping it healthy and moisturized without high costs.

Respiratory Health: For good respiratory health, open windows during the day to ensure good air circulation within the house. During the cold mornings and evenings, close the doors to avoid direct exposure to dry air, and consider using a humidifier to maintain indoor moisture levels.

As winter begins, the body must adjust internally to the changing external weather, which can sometimes lead to minor illnesses and health complications that should not be underestimated. Therefore, by paying attention to the points mentioned above, let's look forward to spending a healthy, happy, and peaceful winter season together.