Your Best Defense This Winter

By MARIE KAKOUSIDIS.

Keeping fit and healthy may seem a bit hard as we head into the colder months, but motivating yourself this winter- and avoiding the dreaded flu- may be easier than you think.

Club co-ordinator at Funlife Fitness Centre Carol Steele says she trains every day and whether in rain, hail or shine her routine is consistent.

“When someone is eating healthy and exercising they are feeling more alive,” says Carol.

“If you don’t exercise the kilos go on, they make you sluggish and it increases your risk of diabetes and heart disease. If you fall into that rutt, it’s harder to get out of it.”

But if you are thinking about the comforts of your heated living room or the fuzzy feeling you get when you enjoy a rich winter stew, think again.

Carol explains that keeping active is excellent for circulation, will help increase your immunity and open up your lungs.

That means, fewer lingering colds and chest infections and more time to enjoy your free time this winter.

The key here is finding enjoyable activities like joining a social sporting team at a recreation centre or making use of the facilities at your local gym.

Challenge yourself to an indoor boot camp class, shake your booty at zumba or if you suffer from joint pains try a swim in a heated pool and finish with a sauna.

Mega Health assistants Karen Harrison and Natalie Christoff say that encouraging a friend or two to join you is a great way to increase your own motivation.

Carol agrees and also encourages the wearing of brighter clothing and listening to music as quick mood pick-me-ups.

If you are still feeling a little flat consult your GP and see if there are any nutrients your body is lacking.

When it comes to using supplements, Karen explains that what works for one may not work for another but some of the common choices are; fish oil, flak seed oil and olive leaf extract for immunity building, glucosamine joint fluidity, protein for muscle building and repair and vitamin C for fighting those nasty colds.

“Everyone’s nervous systems and digestive systems are all different,” Natalie said.

She suggests reading the book ‘Eat right for your type’ by Dr. Peter J D’Adamo to learn which foods are best suited to your blood type.

As for keeping your diet in check, Carol suggests minimal intake of carbohydrates (the earlier on in the day, the better), decrease your sugars and fats, eat smaller meals every 3 hours and increase protein in your diet. This will bring your insulin to a happy level and keep your tummy satisfied longer.

Keep active and avoid comfort eating and this year’s winter flu might just pass you by.