A Healthier, Happy Winter
December 20, 2023
FIGHT THE SADNESS
By Raul Octaviani, MD, internal medicine physician
Vitamin D is important for healthy bones and muscles. It’s also essential for mental health. A great source of vitamin D is the sun. Unfortunately, the sun often hides out during the winter months in South Dakota. That lack of sunlight may be associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD may cause you to do the following:
• avoid social events
• eat extra calories
• put on a few extra pounds
• sleep more than normal
Most of the time, SAD symptoms resolve within a few months. In the meantime, you may benefi t from antidepressants, exposure to bright lights or therapy. Spending time with loved ones is also important. Talk with your provider if you’ve experienced SAD previously, as proper treatment may prevent future episodes.
COLD AND FLU, STAY AWAY!
By Kristin VanBuskirk, CNP, pediatric/family medicine nurse practitioner
The common cold and the fl u are two of the most common wintertime respiratory illnesses. Here are a few tips to stay healthy this season:
• Avoid people who are sick.
• Clean surfaces with
antibacterial wipes.
• Cover your mouth when
coughing or sneezing.
• Don’t touch your eyes
or face.
• Get a flu shot.
• Stay home if you don’t
feel well.
• Wash your hands regularly.
If you still get a wintertime illness, over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms. When an illness sticks around after a week of home treatment or if you feel something isn’t quite right, contactyour provider. We are here to help.
MOVING IN THE COLD
By Paige Robish, DPT, physical therapist
Exercise provides physical benefits and leads to lower levels of depression and anxiety. It also makes it easier to complete everyday tasks. A lack of physical activity can lead to:
• constant feelings of fatigue
• diabetes
• diffculty falling and
staying asleep
• high blood pressure
• weakened immune system
• other chronic health issues
and a lower quality of life
During winter’s cold, short days, it can be hard to get off the couch and move. Inspire yourself by starting with a small, attainable goal and build on that. By adding movement to your regular routine, you set the stage to stay active throughout the year.
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