JACKSON, Mich. - At this point in the winter
season, it is safe to say that all of us are over the snow, the ice, and the
freezing cold temperatures. In fact, we are so over the winter season that we
will blame just about anything that goes wrong on the weather, right? Well, we
thought we would cut Old Man Winter some slack and tell you all the truth about
some of the most common misconceptions. It is about time that we bust those
winter health myths!
Myth #1: Cold Air Makes You Sick
Contrary to popular belief, lower temperatures
alone cannot make you sick. Ironically, cells that fight off infection in
the body increase when you are out in the cold. Cold viruses tend to grow best
at around 91 degrees and if you're outside during the winter in Michigan, your
nostrils are sure to be much colder than that!
Myth #2: A Hefty Dose of Vitamin C Cures a Cold
We can consider this a "half myth, half
truth" type of situation. While it is important to eat a nutritious diet
rich in vitamin C to enhance your immune system, downing a massive glass of OJ
when you feel a cold coming on won't necessarily stop the cold dead in its
tracks. In truth, increasing your vitamin C intake will only aid in shortening
the length and severity of the virus.
Myth #3: You Shouldn't Exercise When It's Cold
Do not think you can use winter weather as an
excuse to skip your daily workout! If you are dressed warmly and are a
generally healthy person, there really isn't a temperature that is considered
"too cold" to exercise. Studies have shown that going for a run in
colder temps increases pace and in return will help you burn more calories in
less time. Not to mention, a good sweat session will boost your endorphin
levels and keep you smiling all day long!
Myth #4: You Don't Need Sunscreen
Regardless if it is cold and cloudy outside, the
sun's UV rays can still damage your skin. The sun can actually cause more UV
damage if there is snow on the ground because the reflective surface
intensifies the sun's rays. Needless to say, continue to wear sunscreen or a
moisturizer with at least an SPF level of 30 all year round!
Myth #5: Allergies Go Away in the Winter
Those winter sniffles may feel like a cold, but it
could be allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America,
one in five people experience indoor/outdoor allergies, and indoor allergies
tend to be much worse in the winter. Molds flourish in the winter as
we hibernate in our artificially warmed homes with poor air quality. Keep
track of your symptoms and see a doctor if you see no signs of improvement.
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