6 Tips for Staying Healthy this Fall

Autumn is a season of transition—particularly in temperature—that can often stir up the common cold and other illnesses. With kids going back to school it can mean they come home with new germs, which might in turn cause you to get sick as well. Health can dwindle a little in the fall as people have a tendency to slow down, get less exercise and eat heavier foods. Check out these 6 tips for staying healthy this fall season.

1. Get Lots of Rest

Make sure you’re getting enough rest this season as you might be exposed to new germs. Let your body recharge in the way it needs to in order to keep functioning at its highest capacity. Don’t oversleep, though! Open the blinds in the morning to let in natural light so your body can stay in tune with its circadian rhythm.

2. Buy Food in Season

Pumpkins, parsnips, yams, winter squash, pears, Brussels sprouts, and turnips are just a few to fill your palate with! Root vegetables of all kinds are great fall foods. Not only does buying seasonal fruits and veggies mean that your produce will be less expensive, but it will also be much richer in nutrients.

3. Eat Autumn Colors

Deep greens, dark yellows and oranges are the warm, earthy colors that autumn encompasses. The brighter the fruit, the better! These autumn-colored fruits and veggies are often what are in season, so you’ll get more nutrients just from eating them!

4. Stay Hydrated

Keep a water bottle next to your bed to remind you to drink up! You’ll remember to drink it before you go to bed at night and then first thing in the morning as well. Drinking water helps flush out toxins, helps clear up your skin, aids in digestion, and transports nutrients throughout the body.

5. Keep Moving

As the weather starts to cool off, we can have the tendency to want to curl up on the couch and stay stagnant all season long. Definitely get rest when you need it, but don’t neglect getting a good sweat at least once a day, as our bodies need to flush things out regularly!

6. Boost Your Immune System

Limiting your sugar intake will absolutely help boost your immune system. Stick to simple foods like fruits and vegetables—you might make a hearty lentil stew full of nutrient-rich veggies to help keep you warm!

A Note on Safety

Keep in mind that there are less daylight hours during winter weather. There’s more traffic and impaired drivers on the roads during the holiday season as well. It’s important to remain vigilant on the roads, particularly with so many celebrations taking place this season.