Staying Healthy In The Cold: Surviving Alaska’s Harsh Winter

Most people prefer warm and sunny weather. No need to worry about what to wear. A simple pair of shorts and a T-shirt is usually more than enough. The nice weather also improves your mood. You feel more active and positive. Spending time outdoors is also a big part of that. You can enjoy the beach all day long. Or enjoy a day by the pool while sipping a cocktail. The options are limitless.

Sunny weather means there’s also lots of vitamin D to absorb. Vitamin D is essential for our good health. It keeps our immune system working properly and plays a huge role in mood regulation. Some people have the fortune of living in areas where the weather is always nice. But what about those who suffer harsh and long winters?

For people in Alaska, the winters can get quite rough. It gets really cold and freezing. Snowstorms happen often and they can affect one’s mood significantly. If you live somewhere high in the mountains, you also might risk not being able to leave your house. So, how can people in Alaska practice good health in the winter? Well, all it takes is a couple of good habits. And a bit of consistency.

Alaska is a beautiful country with a lot to explore and the cold weather shouldn’t affect your mood and health. No matter if you’re living there or planning on visiting. Then, let’s take a look at what you can do to welcome the winter with open arms and good health.

Winter in Alaska

Winter in Alaska can get really harsh. Temperatures get really low, even below freezing. Some areas even get -45°C or even lower. The days are short, so there isn’t a lot of daylight. That means you can’t really get a lot of vitamin D. Snow can also pile up really easily. That makes it difficult to move around or drive. Most residents already know the drill and prepare in advance. They need to make sure their homes are well-insulated. They are also rich with food and other supplies in case they can’t get out.

Healthy habits for a healthy life

If you’ve lived long enough in Alaska, you already know how dangerous the cold weather can get. Most people already have a strategy in place. As Anchorage is the largest city, this is where residents will turn to for food supplies but also for health-related matters. 

Before winter kicks in, it might be a good idea to ensure you’re healthy and in good shape. And the best way to do that is by going to the doctor. If you’re someone who’s afraid of the doctors, then try to at least go once per year, ideally in September or October. You can get your medical check-up before winter begins and you can have your mind at ease. If there are any issues, the doctor will let you know and take care of it. Maybe you’ll get some medicine or vitamins and you’ll be good to go.

When doing a check-up, don’t forget the dentist. Teeth get sensitive during the winter so it’s best you’re certain they’re healthy. The first step is to make an appointment with your Anchorage dentist and see what they have to say. We’re usually not even aware of the dental issues we have before going for a check-up. 

Another important thing is staying active. Don’t stop exercising just cause it’s cold. You don’t have to go to the gym. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, walking, and even fishing. If you love winter sports, there are so many options. Skiing and snowboarding are just a few of the many. If you decide to go skiing, just make sure you’re wearing proper gear and staying warm.

When spending that much time outside in the cold, you need to protect your skin. Use creams and drink lots of water. And sunscreen is a must. With a high SPF even if you can’t see the sun. 

Mental health is also important. Stay in touch with friends and family as often as possible. Video call each other, visit each other, and communicate to help the time pass by. Socializing is very important and has so many benefits for the brain. You can organize game nights, movie nights or just get together to talk. Make some nice food, invite a few friends over and your day will instantly get better. You’ll also feel more energized.

Finally, make sure to get enough sleep. At least 8 hours per night if you can. Try your best not to look at your phone before going to bed. That way you’ll get more quality sleep.

The bottom line

Do you already feel better now with all these tips? As you can see, staying healthy is not that hard. You just need to be well-prepared and take the time to visit the doctor. If you see your GP and dentist regularly, then you won’t have to worry about unexpected health issues.

Food and hydration are equally important. And a healthy sleeping routine will make sure you stay in good shape.