As most Albertans are aware, the weather here is never consistent, and the undeterminable temperature spikes and plummets can really take a toll on the immune system. May is a month to shine, and so we have also added in a few helpful tips about how to avoid the nasty bug that's been circling the city. Contrary to popular belief, the biggest reason we are most susceptible to cold flu viruses during the ‘winter’ (AKA 10 months out of an Albertan year) is because our immune systems are easily weakened by cold weather. The cold causes chaos in the body and all of our little immune system 'helper cells' end up scattering around trying to manage the countless effects of the cold. When this happens, our body becomes vulnerable and more susceptible to sicknesses.
Matrix has three easy tips for you stay healthy while working outdoors:
As cliché as it sounds, washing your hands is the number one way to prevent sickness. Sharing tools, office supplies, and doorknobs is inevitable in any workplace, and it just so happens that these are just a few of the popular hot spots where germs love to hang out. Everything you touch has the potential of being a nesting ground for bugs that are out for real estate. Wash your hands; you don’t want to be on this market.
Think of dressing warm as keeping your immune system amped and ready to hold the defense lines. It’s hard to guestimate the weather in Alberta, so take the time to find out the daily forecast before wearing your favorite t-shirt in a snowstorm.
Eating a balanced diet is essential for staying healthy and strong. Although some of us may have a negative connotation towards healthy foods due to being force-fed our greens as children, Mom was right – greens are good. Getting a good spread of the vitamins and nutrients is not just for dieters and fitness enthusiasts, it is important that we all eat our greens on a daily basis to prevent sickness short and long term.
Obviously it is impossible to avoid getting sick all together, but if you follow these three tips you can sure try to prevent it!
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we work on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut'ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
