Prevention February 2025

TAKE OUT YOUR PENCIL! What comes to mind when you think of self-care? A spa day or a shopping spree fits the bill, but small acts like soaking in a bath and curling up with a book are equally rejuvenating and easy to fit into your routine—which should be a goal, as studies show that prioritizing yourself enhances overall health and quality of life. “Self-care gives your body, mind, and soul attention,” says Nancy Irwin, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles. WRITE DOWN THREE WAYS YOU WILL (OR DID!) CARE FOR YOURSELF THIS MONTH:…

DO SO ME YOGA. You know that a nice flow is relaxing and a great workout, but it may also help improve incontinence if that’s an issue you struggle with. Women with daily urinary incontinence who did 90 minutes of yoga twice a week for 12 weeks reported fewer leaking issues than before—now, that’s our kind of zen! FEAST ON FRUIT. And make it winter superfoods like citrus and kiwi that are packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants to help prop up your immune system during sniffle season. Produce is most flavorful and nutritious when it’s at peak ripeness, so embrace eating seasonally! SKIP THE ELE VATOR. Instead, take the stairs whenever you have the chance. It could lower your risk of dying from heart disease and help you…

1 Which of these foods help boost immunity? A Yogurt B Oatmeal C Brazil nuts D Chicken soup E All of the above. 2 You should starve a fever.  A True B False 3 Avoid exercise if you’re fighting a cold. A True—you need a lot of rest with even a minor cold. B False—stick to your fitness routine if you can. 4 Most of your immune system is housed in your: A Brain B Gut  C Lymph nodes 5 Which of these doesn’t fight off viruses like colds and the flu? A Getting regular exercise  B Taking antibiotics as soon as you feel sick C Being vigilant about handwashing ANSWERS 1 A WHOLE-SOME DIET helps prevent you from getting sick and also aids in your recovery. For instance, lactobacillus…

CHECK OFF THE SMART STEPS YOU TAKE THIS MONTH. Layer on moisture. Cold weather makes extra moisture a requirement for healthy skin, says Michelle Henry, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, who recommends double-moisturizing your face and body. First, apply lightweight lotion with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe. Top it with a rich cream to seal in moisture. Look for emollient ingredients such as ceramides, squalane, shea butter, petrolatum, and dimethicone. Always moisturize when skin is still damp. “This way you are locking water into your skin before it can evaporate from the surface,” says Dr. Henry. Try to get in the habit of rubbing in lotion right when you get out of the shower. Exfoliate the right way. It’s important to slough off dry, dead cells that…

STELLAR SNACKS These gourmet pretzel sticks will level up any Super Bowl party. Made from wheat and barley flour, sea salt, vegan butter, and delicious seasonings, they offer up to 3 g of protein per serving. For gluten-free snackers, try Grain-Free Thins, which feature cassava and chickpea flour. Grab single bags or six-bag cases. (From $4.50, stellarsnacks.com) OWALA BOTTLE If you’re less motivated to stay on top of hydration during the colder days of winter, a fun new water bottle could be just the encouragement you need to drink up. Owala has options for adults and kids, in a range of sizes (from 16 oz to 40 oz) and cheerful colors that are sure to brighten up your day. (From $15, owalalife.com) PHILIPS SONICARE ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH The beginning of a…

This move will help you strengthen and improve mobility through your back, arms, and shoulders—which can lead to better posture and lung capacity as well as help reduce the risk of injury and loosen you up during winter sitting season. Add it to your regular routine. The Goal Aim to do this move every day for a week. 1 Sit in a straight-backed chair or stand about a foot from a wall. Place a small ball or pillow behind the middle of your back, between your shoulder blades. Reach your arms out in front of you. 2 Bracing your core and your spine, drive your shoulder blades and elbows back as if trying to crush the ball with your shoulder blades. 3 Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat 2…