Feel better in 5

Big changes start with simple steps. Try these ideas to help improve your wellbeing

REFRESH YOUR SKIN

For thousands of years, humans have turned to aloe vera – ‘nature’s medicine’ – to help heal and cool thanks to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal qualities. Today, aloe continues to be the remedy of choice for many people as it helps to restore your skin to keep it happy and healthy. Sure, you could grow your own aloe and slather yourself in sap, but we prefer to use Australian-owned Plunkett’s products; offering a Hi-Potency Aloe Vera Moisturiser and an Aloe Vera 99 per cent Pure Soothing Gel. These luscious balms sink deep into the skin, leaving a refreshing difference without any harmful additives. Aloe vera products, from $8.20. For more information, visit plunketts.com.au. WINTER IS COMING...

And so is the flu! After last year’s horrible flu season and the mark of a century since the 1918 influenza epidemic that killed tens of millions across the world, there is no better time to get the flu shot.

However, you shouldn’t just rely on this to keep you healthy throughout the colder months. Give yourself the best chance of staying healthy by boosting your immunity. These foods, packed with minerals and vitamins, could help you to remain flu-free:

Zinc is known for its ability to

fight colds. In people with diabetes, zinc has also been known to improve blood glucose control. Try oysters, lobsters, crab and beef.

Vitamin C reduces the duration of symptoms when taken at higher doses and helps to fight infections; it also helps to lower levels of sorbitol (sugar that can collect and damage cells in your kidneys, eyes and nerves). Why not add citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, capsicum and spinach to your diet.

Vitamin D is essential for the

health of your bones and muscles. The best way to absorb this is through exposing your bare skin to the sun. During winter, this becomes harder, so eat eggs, fish (such as salmon) and milk.

Probiotics can often help

ease cold symptoms faster, and have significant effects on the reduction of glucose and HbA1c, and promoting healthy insulin levels and resistance in PWD. Think yoghurt, tempeh, kimchi, miso and kombucha!

Above all else, remember to exercise, drink plenty of water, get plenty of rest and take time to relax, laugh and simply enjoy life.

NOTE: Talk to your doctor first before taking any of these as supplements.

ONE WITH NATURE

Ever wondered why escaping the city leaves you feeling more relaxed and refreshed? A recent study conducted in the UK found people who were exposed to nature for more than 30 consecutive days reported an increase in health of 30 per cent; and those who spent more than 30 minutes each day surrounded by the countryside experienced greater psychological benefits. Nature has also been found to help reduce hypertension, respiratory tract and cardiovascular illnesses, improve mood and vitality, restore attention capacity and mental fatigue, and can also be beneficial in terms of mental wellbeing (such as anxiety). This connection makes us happier and healthier, and boosts our feelings of relaxation and refreshment – especially when visiting country or coastal locations (or even a protected nature site).

FIDGETING PERMITTED!

As we get more sedentary in our everyday activities, it’s important to remember to get up and exercise. However, this isn’t always possible. Researchers from the University of Missouri found that those who fidget while sitting are more likely to protect the arteries in their legs and potentially help to prevent cardiovascular disease. The study asked participants to tap one foot intermittently over three hours, while the other remained still; this resulted in an increase in blood flow for the fidgeting leg. So, next time you find yourself sitting for an extended period of time with the inability to exercise, fidgeting is your next best bet – after all, any movement is better than no movement.

MOTHER DEAREST

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, but that shouldn’t be the only reason you spend time with your mum! A study into loneliness in older persons conducted by researchers at the University of California found that of the 1600 participants – with an average age of 71 – 23 per cent of those who were lonely died within six years of the study. Throughout history, humans have always relied on others for survival, and this hasn’t changed. Spending time with friends and family often leads to laughter – a powerful antidote found to have a positive influence on lowering blood pressure, boosting immunity, and stimulating both blood flow and mental activity – and helps people live longer, too. So give Mum a call now, invite her over for lunch or start a new tradition, and remember to say hi to Dad, too!