Winter is just around the corner, and while it’s the season for cozy nights and festive celebrations, it also brings the time of year when colds are more common due to the chillier weather.
You’re likely familiar with the telltale signs: a sore throat, stuffy nose, sneezing, and coughing. And of course, a cold can leave you feeling sluggish and stuck in bed for days—not ideal for university life. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips and tricks to help prevent catching a cold, and we’ve gathered them for you. Here’s how you can stay healthy and make the most of the season.
Prioritize rest and keep your sleep routine steady
College life is hectic, and it's easy to sacrifice sleep to finish assignments or hang out with friends. However, sleep is one of the most powerful tools you have for keeping colds at bay. During sleep, your body releases proteins called cytokines that aid in fighting infections and reducing inflammation.
Aim for seven to eight hours each night. Set up a calming bedtime routine by reducing screen time and keeping a regular sleep schedule to ensure quality rest. By giving your body the rest it needs, you’re helping to maintain the defences that fend off illness.
Fuel up with nutritious meals
Wintertime comfort foods are tempting, but maintaining a balanced diet is key to staying healthy. Load up on fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support your immune system. Foods like oranges, spinach, and bell peppers are great sources of Vitamin C, which helps your body fend off colds.
Try cooking simple, healthy meals in your apartment to ensure you're getting the nutrients you need. Not only will this boost your health, but it will also save money and provide a break from your studies.
Keep your space clean and germ-free
Colds are highly contagious, and maintaining a clean environment will significantly reduce your chances of catching a virus. High-touch surfaces, such as door handles, desks, and remote controls, are often the culprits when it comes to spreading cold-causing viruses. Make it a point to wipe down these surfaces regularly using disinfectant wipes. Besides, a clean apartment isn't just healthier—it's also a more pleasant place to come home to.
Stay hydrated, even when it’s cold outside
It’s easy to forget about drinking water in winter when you’re not sweating in the heat, but staying hydrated is crucial for your health. Drinking enough water helps keep your nasal and air passages moist, which is essential for trapping viruses before they can cause illness.
Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and make it a habit to drink from it regularly. Herbal teas are also a great way to stay warm and hydrated during the colder months.
Practice proper hand hygiene
Hand hygiene is your first line of defence against catching and spreading colds. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, especially after touching shared surfaces or before eating. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Make it a habit to avoid touching your face as much as possible, as this is a common way that viruses enter the body.
Take breaks and manage your stress
High-stress levels can weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness. Finding ways to relax and unwind is just as important as eating well and staying active. Some student apartments like those provided by Foundry Lofts come with several amenities designed to help you de-stress, like the fireside lounge and games room. Take time to relax after a long day of classes—your body will thank you for it.
Whether it's meditating, reading a book by the fireplace, or playing a game of pool with friends, giving your mind a break to refresh yourself and strengthening your body’s ability to stay healthy.
Make exercise part of your routine
When it’s cold outside, the idea of going for a run can seem impossible. But keeping physically active is crucial for strengthening your immune system. Exercise increases blood circulation, helping white blood cells move more freely through your body and improve their ability to fight off infections. Whether it’s a quick morning workout or a de-stressing yoga session in the evening, staying active helps ward off those pesky winter colds.
Conclusion
Winter doesn’t have to mean catching colds and feeling under the weather. By following these simple tips—keeping your space clean, getting enough sleep, staying active, and managing stress—you can enjoy a healthy, happy winter.
At Foundry Lofts, our fully furnished student apartments in St. Catharines offer everything you need to stay comfortable, healthy, and focused. With in-suite laundry, private and group study spaces, a fitness centre, and more, you have the perfect setting to balance academics with wellness. Enjoy the benefits of a convenient, comfortable space where you can live, study, and thrive.