10 Useful Health Tips for Winter Travel

Hi, my name is Vishali. I am from Singapore, a warm country with consistent weather throughout the year. My family relocated to US, Idaho last January, 2009. We had experienced the peak of winter here. Now I am going through my second winter experience. I am writing this article from my own experiences and through some internet research. I hope this article will benefit anyone who decides to relocate to a winter prone country or even just visit. These tips are not only useful for travel but for anytime during winter.

1. Always keep yourself warm - Wear long underwear, turtle necks and thick socks. Using thermal wear is good. Dress in several layers to keep in the heat. Have a hat on always when out as body heat is lost from our heads. Keep hands warm by wearing gloves. Keep earlobes and nose covered.

2. Protect your eyes from snow, ice and sun. Wear a good pair of sunglasses during winter.

3. Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluids daily - Keeping your body hydrated is one of the most important things in winter. Drinking enough fluid can help flush out toxins in the body.

4. Maintain good hygiene - Wash hands frequently with soap and water, scrubbing for 20 seconds. Wash your hands after going to crowded placed. This will help reduce the chances of cold or flu germs from spreading during winter.

5. Avoid sharing food with family members who are sick. And traveling with you during winter.

6. Have at least 8 hours of sleep or more - It is important to have sufficient sleep during winter as bodily rhythms change with the increase of dark hours.

7. Exercise for 10 minutes a day - This will help reduce lethargy and boost your mood.

8. Get out in the Sun for awhile - Sunlight plays a significant role in nourishing and energizing the human body.

9. Eat healthy - Eat foods that contain natural carbohydrates like pasta, rice and fruits. Eat foods that are high in Vitamin D, which increases serotonin levels and supplements rich with B-complex. Have more starchy vegetable like potatoes and corns.

10. Get a Flu Shot- Getting this vaccination protects against influenza, a specific virus that can cause high fever, fatigue, respiratory illness, even death.

I have compiled these tips using information from the following websites and also from my own experiences.

http://www.kidscantravel.com/tipstravelkids/travelhealth/winterhealthtips/index.html

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/healthywinter