Staying healthy this winter

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Tis the season for the sniffling and sneezing. Winter sees an explosion of germs and sickness.  The crud is going around. This is the time of year that germs spread and spread.  We all know people battling to feel better right now.

Experts say viruses spread more easily through dry air.  When it's cold outside, the air is drier, making it easier for germs to pass through.  And, people are in tighter quarters in the winter.  They're more likely to be inside, out of the cold weather.  And, that means they are more likely to spread germs to one another.  Also, kids spread germs easily when school is in session.

But, there are some things experts say we can do to stay healthy, starting with exercise.

Dr. Deborah Rouse-Raines explains, "Exercise is not only good for your heart, but one of the most important organs that gets affected during the winter months is our brain.  People tend to get depressed and not feel as well.  So, exercise provides that good blood supply to all your organs.  But, I think people tend to neglect their mental health during the winter.  Exercise helps with everything, with stress. It helps with immunity.  So, it's really important to get your aerobic activity in."

Dr. Rouse-Raines also suggests getting at least seven hours of sleep.  According to experts, when you get less than seven hours, your chances of getting a cold go up three times.  Also, remember your diet.  We should all be eating plenty of fruits and vegetables full of anti-oxidents. 

And, Dr. Rouse-Raines reminds us to wash our hands!  She says we can create a "protection zone" around our house by washing hands right when you walk in the door.  That way any germs we picked up throughout the day are gone before spreading inside.

Experts also say we should make sure to stay warm in the cold weather.  Take time out to check on neighbors or other who may need a little extra help this time of year.

Also, try to manage your stress.  This can be a tough time of year full of pressure from bills, jobs and social commitments.  But, stress can lead to all kinds of health complications. 

 Be sure to keep an extra close eye on your children.  With more germs floating around, there are more chances they can catch something.  And, the smaller they are, the more dangerous some of these sicknesses can be.  Make sure they wash their hands, get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.

For more on keeping our kids healthy this winter, click here.