How to Avoid Getting Sick this Winter

It's that time of year again. Avoiding the sniffles, the shivers, and all other forms of winter blues can be a tricky feat in the coldest months of the year. Thankfully, with a little prep, effort, and some good ole OCD attention to detail, you can steer clear of those nasty germs and stay healthy this season. To help you stay well, the team at BentallGreenOak Residential Services brings you this list of tips.

Eat Healthy

Nothing maintains a strong constitution like healthy eating. By maintaining a regimen of fresh, home-cooked meals, eating daily doses of fruit and veg, topping up your vitamin levels, adding a veg/protein shake or two a week, and staying hydrated, a habit of health can be forged to stave off sickness.

Sleep

Obvious, yes. But a lack of sleep is perhaps the fastest way to run down your immune system. While it's easy to stay up late working, playing, or watching TV, make an effort to hit the sack a bit earlier this winter to get in a maximum number of Zs. Your body will thank you and you'll keep colds at bay.

Bundle Up

The whole grandmotherly "Bundle up or you'll catch your death" thing might be the stuff of holiday movies, but it actually has merit. While Canada has infamous winter temperatures, they're actually not hard to combat as long as you have proper gear. Wear a toque. Pack gloves. Layer your parka with an insulating liner. And get wool socks and long undies. It always takes longer to put on, but once you're out on the street it makes all the difference.

Hand Washing

With all the magic of modern medicine, what's the most effective deterrent to common illness? Without a doubt it's handwashing. 90-100% of infection happens somewhere between touching something, and eating something. Take a few minutes extra to wash your hands before eating at every meal. Especially when spending a lot of time around kids or in public places.

Manage Stress

Stress is a massive contributor to immune system health (and dysfunction). From average stuff to major life situations, stress can make you sick in a hurry. Take some time to relax and recoup, especially during the winter. 

Flu Shot

While a highly debated topic, flu shots are free, relatively painless, and a way to deter illness in the depths of winter.

The BentallGreenOak Residential Services blog team hopes this list helps you stay healthy this winter.  For more information about BentallGreenOak properties in your city, please visit our website.