It’s the time of year that many have been looking forward to since January. The air is crisp, the sun is bright but for shorter periods of time, menus again include things that begin with Pumpkin Spice, and “sweater weather” is here. It’s Autumn!
While the focus may be on pumpkin patch schedules, hunting down the best deals on bales of hay, and sprucing up that fire put, if living your healthiest is a priority, there are some things you may want to consider this season. Many are looking forward to a reprieve from the intense summer heat, yet the Fall season brings with it some wellness culprits that can sideline individuals and households. These Fall-time culprits could include:
- Allergies
- Common cold and flu
- Ear and throat infection
- Sinusitis
- Cold-induced asthma
- Norovirus
- Vitamin D Deficiency
- Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD)
- Dehydration
- Muscle and back problems
Most are not shocked by the need to take measures to avoid spreading germs associated with the cold and flu. Now, in our second autumn with COVID-19, we know to add that to the list of reasons for handwashing and distancing from others when sick. Yet, you may not have considered how a change in the weather could also impact other health issues.
Activities like raking leaves, joining hayrides, and fluctuations in the temperature are some things to think about to stay healthy during this season. Whether you choose to vaccinate against certain illnesses or not, here are some other tips for autumn wellness.
Warm up and go slow! Like you would with any physical exercise, warm up before undergoing yardwork. Raking leaves can create concerns ranging from exertion and body pains to serious matters such as heart attack and stroke. Also, if you lead a more sedentary lifestyle, it would be best to go slow and don’t ever exert yourself.
Be aware of allergens in your area like pollen from ragweed and tumbleweed, mold, and dust mites. Just like Spring, the Fall too has its seasonal allergens that can increase the chance of other conditions such as asthma and ear, nose, and throat infections. We may not think about it, but there are indoor seasonal allergens as well. Cleaning stored blankets, regular dusting, and investing in an air purifier could help.
Drink your water. Because the weather is cooler many forget it is important to continue to drink plenty of water. Just like sweating does in the summer, cooler, dryer air in autumn can bring about dehydration. Drinking water is also a great way to regulate the body’s temperature so that the different systems function at their best.
Take vitamin D supplements. Because we get most of our vitamin D from the sun, and there is less sun to enjoy, many find themselves needing to take vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D has been shown to help improve both the mood and immune system. It is always best for a medical professional to evaluate your vitamin D levels to establish the plan of action.
Protect the skin. Moisturize your skin to avoid problems associated with dry skin. Also, wear layers to accommodate for the vast fluctuations in temperatures. Plan by bringing along layers that can be taken on and off as needed throughout the day.
Help your immune system. In addition to handwashing and taking supplements such as elderberry and vitamin C, our immune systems can be positively impacted by things like improving our sleep, eating more antioxidant and omega-3 rich foods, as well as reducing or stopping unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol drinking.
Stay active and spend time outdoors! Physical activity along with a healthy diet helps boost the immune system, avoid weight gain, and helps keep the heart healthy. Keeping in mind the possibility of allergy triggers, as previously stated, enjoying the sun and outdoor air helps your vitamin D levels and ward off things like Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD).
There is so much more to autumn than a Pumpkin Spice Latte from the local coffee shop. Be mindful of ways to stay healthy as the cooler weather moves into your area! Did we mention it’s sweater weather?
Desert Oasis offers services such as IV Nutritional Therapy, Low Dose Allergen (LDA) Therapy, and Nutritional Assessment to assist with any seasonal wellness concerns you may have. Desert Oasis Clinic can help you maintain your health using the latest natural and holistic treatments. Please call right now at (702) 310-9350 to speak to our friendly staff and schedule an appointment.