Mumbai - The city is getting to sample a slightly serious winter this year. With its attendant delights, the chilly weather has also heralded the downside - winter ailments.
Mumbai Live got Cama Hospital superintendent Dr Rajshri Katke to give Mumbaikars a few tips on how to fend off winter illnesses.
Here are the points to remember-
Young children, pregnant women and asthmatics should take special care during the days when the mercury dips.
Wear socks, gloves, ear muffs when you step outside for a walk. Have your medicines regularly.
Smog, fog and cold breezes can all combine to cause infections. We need to guard against the H1N1 virus in particular, so we need to take care of children's health.
Consume warm drinks.
Stroll in the mild morning sunlight for 10 to 15 minutes, which imparts a natural warmth to the body.
Exercise for at least a few minutes before the cold sets in.
Consume more fruits, dry fruit - cashews and almonds in particular. Milk, eggs, fish are heat retaining foods for the body. Increase the consumption of such foods.
Eat local seasonal foods like laddoos made of methi and dink. Avoid iced water, stick to lukewarm water instead.
Diabetics should keep a watch on their diet and monitor their sugar levels regularly.