Sure, the calendar says its still autumn, but it sure feels like winter. Here are a few story ideas from MSU regarding a healthier winter season.
KEEPING HEALTHY NATURALLY
When it comes to maintaining good health in the winter, good diet, exercise and plenty of rest generally prove to be a reliable combination. But for those who need a little help, there are some herbs and supplements that may do the trick.
For example, MSU physician Janis Rygwelski says, Echinacea is one of the more commonly used -- and effective -- treatments for upper respiratory infections when taken at the first sign of illness.
"Although there is not a great deal of research in the United States on herbal products, several studies have found it be to quite effective in shortening the duration of the cold and lessening the intensity of symptoms," says Rygwelski, assistant professor of family practice.
She says another supplement that may be useful is zinc gluconate, which can be helpful in treating upper respiratory infection.
She adds that Echinacea and other similar supplements should not be taken regularly to prevent illness, as that could create more problems than it solves.
"We need to remember that just because something is natural, it doesn't mean that it is safe," she says. "Consider tobacco, which is a natural plant that has caused serious health problems."
The best advice for remaining well this winter? "Frequent washing of hands," Rygwelski says. "That is probably the single best means to prevent respiratory infections."
Rygwelski says it's always best to consult with a health care provider before trying anything new because many of the herbs and supplements have been found to interact with prescription medications, and they are not regulated like over-the-counter medications.
Contact: Janis Rygwelski, Department of Family Practice, (517) 353-3544, Ext. 439.
GETTING READY FOR THE COLD
While there's nothing that can be done about the soon-to-arrive winter weather, there are a few things that can be done to get ready for it. MSU physiologist Tom Adams says maintaining good physical condition is a great start.
"People will sometimes let their fitness levels decrease because it's too hot in the summer to get out and exercise," he says. "Just getting back into the habit of walking a couple miles each day, or every other day, soon brings back muscle tone and improves physical fitness."
He also suggests making sure clothes are in repair and clean, as any dirt or oil that has seeped into the fibers could prevent them from providing good insulation.
"Washing and dry cleaning garments also causes the fibers to fluff, which allows them to trap more air and provide better insulation," he says.
Adams is the author of the book Guidelines for Surviving Heat and Cold.
Contact: Tom Adams, Department of Physiology, (517) 355-6475, Ext. 1216.
KEEPING KIDS HEALTHY
The arrival of winter means more indoor activities for kids and more opportunities for them to share germs. Colds, sore throats, respiratory illnesses, the flu and other similar maladies are all communicable diseases and, for the most part, preventable.
The first and best defense against many of these illnesses, says MSU nurse Jeanette Klemczak, is immunization. "Make sure your child's shots are up-to-date," she says.
Next, make sure your kids practice good hygiene.
"Teach and remind children to wash hands before eating, after sneezing and using a tissue," says Klemczak, who also is director of Clinical Nursing Practice in MSU's College of Nursing.
When it comes to sneezes, she says: "BLOW (into a tissue), THROW (away the tissue) and WASH (your hands)."
Klemczak also says it's important to keep kids home from school if they're sick, as their illness will tend to be shorter and they won't infect other children.
Contact: Jeanette Klemczak, College of Nursing, (517) 355-5088.
COLD WEATHER EXERCISE
The arrival of winter weather doesn't have to mean the end of outdoor exercise.
MSU physiologist Jim Pivarnik says running in cold weather is not a problem for those who are prepared. And that, he says, starts with clothing.
"Layers of clothing work best," Pivarnik says. "The inner layer should draw moisture away from the skin. Wool is good for the inner layer, but not cotton. And the outer should be wind and waterproof."
He also says make sure the extremities -- fingers, toes and ears -- are covered to prevent frostbite.
A few other tips: Avoid dehydration, take a little extra time to warm up and keep an eye on the weather.
"Check not only the ambient temperature, but also the wind speed," Pivarnik says. "When going for a run, run into the wind to start with and with it on the return."
Contact: Jim Pivarnik, Department of Kinesiology, (517) 353-3520.
Please feel free to contact any of the sources listed, or contact Tom Oswald, University Relations, at (517) 355-2281.
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