Wellness has become such a clichéd word, and perhaps so irksome that it has prompted the 84 year old painter and smoker David Hockey to reach out for beer mats with anti-wellness message! Some people are endowed with sturdy, Teflon health!
Cold season is viewed by many of us, particularly the elderly. with trepidations. Cold season particularly affects the elderly and the infirm more adversely. Many, across the entire age spectrum suffer from winter blues characterised by low mood, anxiety and even depression in extreme cases. Cold, often damp days with shorter day light periods are more likely to trigger winter blues. The other issues that are augmented by cold temperature are joint and muscular problems, such as mobility and suppleness, inflammation, particularly to those suffering from arthritis and rheumatism. Impaired peripheral circulation, that is capillary blood circulation in areas such as hands and feet may create a feeling of numbness and extreme cold. Then there is the added problem of weakened immune system brought about by various competing issues.
There are some basic things one could do to mitigate the effects of cold weather on our health. The most obvious one is to keep warm with proper clothing, adequate warm heating, good nutritious diet, fresh air and gentle exercise. There are also over-the counter supplements which may be of help.
In addition to its role in bones, teeth and muscles vitamin D is also required for healthy functioning the of immune system. It may also have a role in regulating mood balance. Current consensus holds it has an immune-response role in defence against respiratory viruses such as Covid-19.
People suffering from psoriasis do find that the condition gets worse in winter season, this may be due lack of inadequate absorption of sunlight due to extra layers of clothing and also due to reduced amount of sunlight during the season. Supplements of vitamin D would compensate for the loss of vitamin due to lack of adequate sunshine for natural vitamin D synthesis.
Amino acid L-tryptophan, or 5α-tryptophan comes recommended for improving sleep pattern and mood balance. Tryptophan gets metabolised in the body to melatonin and serotonin. The former is a sleep hormone while the latter is a neurotransmitter that is associated with feel-good mood.
L-theanine, an amino acid present in green tea is known to provide feeling of relaxation.
Magnesium contributes to normal bone and muscle function, including the heart muscle and nervous system. It also is effective in reducing tiredness and fatigue. Supplements for joints when combined with anti-inflammatory substances like turmeric, can improve mobility and suppleness of the joints.
Along with countering the winter blues, a strengthening of weakened immune system will provide defence against invading pathogens. Obvious supplements like zinc and vitamin C are the common choice, along with olive leaf and oregano extracts.
As regards cold-feet and hands an improved peripheral circulation of blood may help. Gingko biloba is a herb that is traditionally considered to improve the micro-circulation of the blood through the capillaries, thus providing some warming effect. Incidentally, gingko biloba is also traditionally touted as an aid to tinnitus and improving cognitive function.
I am happy to provide further information and guidelines on the points and supplements discussed in this blog,