Winter, with its short days and cold weather is often a time we like to stay indoors and enjoy the tasty treats on offer during the festive season. It is also when we tend to catch coughs and colds. Here you will find some tips on how to stay healthy and still enjoy this time of year.

If you´ve loved being active over the summer you might be tempted to stop now the nights have drawn in but there are many ways you can continue to stay fit even when it’s cold and dark outside. If you feel it is too cold to go outside, try some indoor exercise with some ten minute workouts or explore new activities such as yoga and swimming. If you are running, walking or cycling outdoors stay safe by wearing reflective clothing and staying in well-lit areas.

The benefits of being active include getting fitter, losing weight and having more energy so if you´re not yet active find something you enjoy and have fun!

Coughs and colds seem everywhere in winter so help prevent their spread by:

• Coughing or sneezing into a tissue
• Throwing the tissue away
• Washing your hands
• Getting the flu jab if you’re eligible

When we’re feeling rotten it might be easy to think we have the flu, but colds can also make us feel ill. Remember, the flu can be serious so get the flu jab if you are eligible.

Symptoms of a cold include:

• Runny nose
• Blocked nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Cough

Flu usually comes on much more quickly than a cold, and symptoms include:

• Sudden fever of 38-40C (100- 104F)
• Muscle aches and pains
• Sweating
• Feeling exhausted and needing to lie down
• A dry, chesty cough

If you’re generally fit and healthy, you can usually look after yourself by resting, drinking non-alcoholic fluids to avoid dehydration and avoiding strenuous activity. For more information visit NHS Choices or your GP.

One of the wonderful things about the festive season is being able to spend time with friends and loved ones whilst indulging in some tasty festive snacks.

Why not try tortilla chips instead of potato chips, making open top mince pies, or even chocolate covered fruit instead of chocolate orange. Click here for some more snack swap ideas.

Many of us enjoy mulled wine or some bubbly at this time of year and it can be easy to drink too much without realising it. Not only does alcohol have a lot of hidden calories it is also extremely dangerous to drive when over the limit. Get the bus or a taxi home, don´t drink and drive…