In many parts of India, the temperatures often drop to freezing levels. It becomes crucial to safeguard your family, particularly your children, from the severe cold. The child can be prone to upper respiratory infections such as cold, cough, and stuffy and runny nose. However, confining your kids indoors isn't a viable solution as it may expose them to infections and allergies. So how can you ensure your children are warm and protected from the chilling weather? This concise guide will address all your queries.
In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr Seema Joshi, Sr Consultant Pediatrician & Adolescent Counselor, Ankura Hospitals, Pune, shares some tips to protect your kids from cold weather.
Follow these measures for keeping children safe in cold weather
Dressing Appropriately for winter
It is important to stay warm during the winter months. This is especially true for toddlers, who are more susceptible to the cold. Dress them in multiple layers and don't forget winter essentials such as boots, socks, hats, and gloves. Limit their time outside as children are more vulnerable to the cold.
Also read: Newborn Screening: Uncovering Rare Diseases and Providing Hope
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Preventing colds and flu
Ensure your child's health by encouraging frequent handwashing with soap and water. Keep their vaccination records current, ensuring they have received all necessary flu shots. Teach them to cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough using either a handkerchief or their elbow.
Also read: Jaundice In Newborns: Warning Signs To Watch Out For
Hydration during cold weather
People often don't feel thirsty in cold weather. However, it's important to keep children hydrated to avoid issues like constipation and headaches. Warm turmeric milk or other fluids like juice can also help boost immunity during the winter months.
Ensuring your children have a balanced, nutritious diet is crucial during the winter months to enhance their immune system. Kids may not feel as hungry in colder weather, but it's important to maintain regular, nutrient-rich meals to keep them satisfied and healthy. Make sure your child eats nutritious meals. Incorporate necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into their eating plan as they are vital for boosting the body's immune system. Provide your child with foods high in vitamin C like oranges, tomatoes, melons, papayas, and green vegetables along with hydrating foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, mint, and ginger.
Encourage your children to engage in daily physical activities
This can help reduce their susceptibility to colds and other illnesses. Regular exercise boosts the body's defenses, keeping both you and your child fit and prepared to ward off recurring diseases.
Activities like cycling, jogging, running, or skipping rope are effective ways of exercising during chilly weather. Furthermore, while winter vacation may inspire outdoor playtime for your kids, exposing them to cold temperatures could potentially make them sick. It's recommended that you provide indoor play options during this time of year instead to keep them safe from the cold.