If only Winter holidays to sunny destinations were on prescription! As it is with hospitals warning that they are bracing themselves for increased pressures associated with cold weather and according to my patients, GP appointments seemingly being rationed it would not be unreasonable to assume that the NHS is trying to direct the public especially the older generation towards taking personal responsibility for their health and wellbeing. To support the NHS in this initiative are highly qualified complementary practitioners who are experienced advocates of preventative medicine and educate patients on steps they might take to increase resilience and maintain health and wellbeing. Winter brings its usual health challenges however this year as so many of my patients have expressed concerns of how they are going to keep warm following unpopular choices by decision makers. I thought a focus on some practical hints and tips at this festive time served with a hot toddy or two might be appreciated by readers. So, searching for official guidance Gov.com provided the following. Considered high risk from cold weather exposure; older people (65+); people with long term health conditions (cardiovascular, respiratory) or a mental health condition. Pregnant women and young children and people with learning disabilities. Those at risk from falls and who live alone and may by unable to care for themselves. People who are housebound or have low mobility and those living in deprived circumstances. Increased risk of ill health due to poor quality housing and particularly cold homes, higher frequency of circulating infectious diseases, such as flu and norovirus during the winter months, physical hazards such as snow and ice. People may use malfunctioning or inappropriate appliances to heat their homes, this can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. When a house is damp as well as cold, mould is more likely to occur increasing risk of respiratory infections. Low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on health, especially for older people with existing health conditions. Heat rooms such as the living room or bedroom, to at least 18°c. reduce draughts by fitting draft excluders around doors and keeping bedroom windows closed at night. Wear several layers of thinner clothing, this is more effective than one thicker layer. My thoughts on keeping warm focus on creating internal heat using foods such as the warming spices cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cardamom. Apricots, dried figs, and dates are rich in nutrients, dietary fibre, and vitamins. Whole grains take longer to break down than normal foods, which can increase blood flow and body heat. Almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, sesame, and sunflower seeds are high in healthy fats and antioxidants, which can help you stay warm. Rich in magnesium and B vitamins, bananas can help regulate body temperature. Eating hot food little and often throughout the day starting with a nourishing breakfast. Hot Oats, Porridge is a slow burning carbohydrate an excellent source of fuel for energy (heat) production. On alternate days use proteins such as eggs or baked beans so necessary for muscle strength and stamina. Mid-morning snacks of fruit or nuts will provide vitamins and minerals with a hot drink of oat milk with cinnamon. Lunchtime, home-made soup laden with fresh vegetables, spices, onions and garlic so important to ward off the bugs ! afternoon tea with cake or fruit. Finishing the day with a balanced meal of whatever you fancy ! plus a glass of your favourite tipple…..just to keep the cold out ! Not forgetting the importance of a warm heart, if you know someone is alone over Christmas invite them for a hot meal remember sharing, chatting and laughter = good energy medicine.
