Stay healthy this winter

It may be cold outside, but winter need not be the unhealthiest time of year for you and your family. Here are ways to make sure that, even when your body is telling you to hibernate, you can keep healthy and fit, no matter what the weather is like.

* Many people feel tired and sluggish during winter. This is due to the lack of sunlight, which disrupts our sleep and waking cycles. Get outdoors in natural daylight as much as possible.

* When it is cold and dark outside, it can be tempting to fill up on unhealthy comfort food. However, it is important to ensure you still have a healthy diet and include five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Explore varieties of fruit and vegetablesthat you may not normally eat.

* You are more likely to get a cold in winter, so make sure your immune system is in tip-top condition. Milk and dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt are great sources of protein, vitamins A and B12 and calcium, which help to keep our bones strong and immune system tough.

* Wear several layers of clothes rather than one chunky layer – clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres help to maintain body heat.

* Cold weather does not mean you have to abandon physical activity completely. Instead, try to fit in what you can, and think about indoor activities too. For example even a short, brisk walk can make you feel warmer. It will also help boost your circulation.