From this morning, the French had to face a mass of cold and humid air coming from Iceland. A fierce low pressure trough, which is likely to become even more pronounced in the coming days. But while some were still showing off their bare arms this Saturday (imagine: 27 degrees in Biarritz!), how can we best cope with this difficult weather? THE Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical, gives us advice.
The cold weakens the body
According to the forecasts of Weather Francetemperatures should not exceed 10 degrees this week. An impressive drop in temperature, which harms our body.
“Significant temperature changes can promote the appearance of diseases andinfections” confirms Dr Gérald Kierzek. “In fact, these sudden variations require more
the immune systemmaking it more vulnerable to
virus and bacteria. For example, the transition from hot weather to cold, humid weather can weaken the natural defenses of the respiratory tract or irritate them (inflammation), thus facilitating the spread
colds, flu
Or
seasonal allergies“.
He adds: “In addition, these weather fluctuations create conditions conducive to the proliferation of certain pathogens“.
So many good reasons to expose yourself to the cold gradually, if possible staying outside for only a few hours the first few days.
A few simple actions can boost the immune system
Faced with these risks, Dr Gérald Kierzek recalls the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Get enough sleep
Inexpensive, this lifestyle habit nevertheless proves to be extremely effective.
“Sufficient quality sleep is essential to strengthen the immune system and promote thermal regulation. It also allows us to better manage physiological stress linked to temperature changes”assures the medical director of True Medical.
Eat intelligently
According to the doctor, health also comes from the plate. Stocking up on essential nutrients helps the body fight cold and viruses.
“I recommend choosing balanced meals with vitamins (vitamin C, D) and minerals, particularly magnesium and zinc, which support thermoregulation and the immune response.“, he admits. “Favoring hot foods is also a good thing. Soups, infusions and simmered dishes are preferred because they allow the body to retain heat and maintain an optimal internal temperature,” specifies the medical expert.
Full of supplements
Another little-known tip: take supplements.
“Some can help, notably vitamin D (especially in winter or if you live in a region where the sun is scarce), vitamin C, zinc or even probiotics to maintain a robust intestinal flora, which plays a role in immune regulation”, underlines the emergency doctor.
Dress in layers
Putting on a merino wool sweater in the morning and then dying of heat at the office is common. Also, to maintain an “optimal” temperature, Dr. Kierzek recommends layering “several layers”, in order to easily adapt your outfit “variations without sweating too much or being cold.
Avoid sudden changes in pace
Since temperature differences are already disrupting your body, there is no need to add another layer. “I recommend reducing excessive physical activities or avoiding very hot or very cold showers which can cause thermal shock“, he warns.
If you are more of the sporty type, prefer moderate physical activity over the next few days.
Stay hydrated
Do you often forget to drink during the day when it’s cool? Be careful, even in winter, your body deserves to be hydrated. “Drinking regularly is essential to compensate for water loss due to sweating or breathing. As a bonus? Dehydration can make you feel cold and weaken your immune system“, underlines the expert.
So many ways to boost your fitness in the coming weeks!