The rainy and dreary fall and winter months are here in in the Walla Walla Valley and are often associated with the symptoms of cold and flu. If you are suffering with symptoms like fever, congestion, coughing and digestive issues, perhaps you can find comfort in knowing you are not alone.
And like others who are suffering, you probably want to be done with these symptoms as soon as possible. Here are some tips from Dr. Patty Martin is Stone Creek Dental Care in Walla Walla to help you get and stay healthy this winter.
1. Focus on Nutrient-Rich Food:
The foods that are good for your teeth are also great for your overall dental health. Dark, leafy greens like kale provide essential nutrients that include beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, and iron to help you stay healthy. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons contain vitamin C and potassium as well as fiber, all of which will boost your health. Additional nutrient-rich winter favorites include winter squash varieties, cranberries, and beans.
In more general terms, prioritize vegetables and fruits for each meal and snack. Crunchy ones like carrots, apples and celery also naturally clean your teeth while you eat. Opt for lean meat – turkey is a great option during this time of year – and low-fat dairy foods to round out a healthy diet.
2. Prioritize Exercise:
When it’s cold and rainy, there’s a great temptation to bundle up under a fleece blanket on the couch with a good book or some Netflix on your laptop. This is a great winter activity in moderation, balanced with regular exercise during these dreary winter months.
Schedule time every day – even if it’s only 30 minutes – to get out in the fresh air and walk or head to the gym for some much-needed physical activity. Here in Northwest, invest in a sturdy pair of rainboots and a high-quality umbrella to keep the bad-weather excuses at bay. Take advantage of the nearby winter snow to practice fun sports like sledding, snowshoeing and skiing to get your blood pumping and stay active.
3. Sleep Well:
If winter weather is good for anything, it’s sleep. Take advantage of the longer nights and darkness and start going to bed earlier. If you’re already feeling sick, the extra sleep will help you feel better faster. If you’re not yet sick, the rest can help you from getting whatever cold or flu virus is going around. Consider investing in a humidifier for your bedroom and an essential oil diffuser for extra health benefits.
4. Know Your Health Baseline:
Knowing your health baseline is an important step to staying healthy now and in later years. If you haven’t had a physical and a flu shot in awhile, make an appointment to see your doctor to get thoroughly checked out. Another important step is to come in our team at Stone Creek Dental Care, who can help diagnose and treat oral health concerns and help you feel strong and healthy again! Call us today at 509-525-5902 to get on the books.
Dental Blog for Alder Family Dental Learn useful information for your dental health by subscribing to the dental blog of Alder Family Dental. Alder Family Dental, 342 Catherine Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362 + (509)-525-9474 + alderfamilydental.com + 10/6/2024 + Page Keywords: Dental Blog, Dentist Walla Walla WA