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December's Focus is Winter Wellness

Things You May Not Know About Staying Healthy in Cold Weather

The lack of sunlight and bitter temperatures can give winter a bad reputation when it comes to your health. You pull out all the tricks to stay warm and healthy, but did you know, some of your winter wellness habits may be based on long-standing myths.

This winter, don’t let these common misconceptions about cold weather health fool you:

  • Cold temperatures don't actually make you sick.
  • You don't lose most of your body heat through your head.
  • Lack of sunlight isn't the only reason for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
  • Do not jump into a hot bath after being freezing cold.
  • Do not skip using sunscreen in the winter.

To help avoid the risk of your core body temperature dropping below 95 ͦF, be sure to wear:

  • A hat;
  •  scarf or mask that covers your face and mouth;
  • A water-resistant coat;
  • Mittens or gloves;
  • Several layers of loose-fitting clothing; and
  • Water resistant boots.

asset2.0For tips on dressing children for cold weather, consider these guidelines.

Now that you have some extra winter wisdom, it will help you stay a bit warmer and healthier until the temperatures creep back up.

For more information on staying healthy in cold weather, visit here.

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Useful Links:

  1. https://www.humana.com/learning-center/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-living/winter-skin
  2. https://www.humanapharmacy.com/articles/Stay-safe-this-holiday-season.html
  3. https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/StateEmployee/BeWell/Documents/December2021/The%20glaring%20risks%20of%20winter.pdf
  4. https://hally.com/2021/12/take-steps-to-stay-healthy-this-winter/
  5. https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/StateEmployee/BeWell/Documents/December2021/December%202021%20Newsletter%20-%20Winter%20Health.pdf
  6. https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/StateEmployee/BeWell/Documents/December2021/Flu_Pneumonia.pdf