7 tips for winter health

5. Eat zinc-rich foods
Zinc helps prevent a weakened immune system. Get adequate amounts by eating oysters, liver, lean beef, pork, turkey, lamb, lentils, pumpkin and sesame seeds, garbanzo beans and yogurt.

6. Favour fruits and veggies
A recent study of more than 35,000 Canadians conducted by the Canadian Community Health Survey showed that the majority of us eat fewer than five servings of fruits and vegetables a day -- Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating recommends eating five to 10 servings per day. One serving is equal to:

• 1 medium-size fresh vegetable or fruit
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh, frozen or canned vegetables or fruit
• 1 cup (250 mL) salad
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) juice

7. Move it
Don't succumb to inactivity this winter -- hit the yoga studio, run on the treadmill or suit up and head outdoors. A brisk walk burns calories, gets the blood flowing and increases energy.

And don't forget to watch your stress levels over the winter -- when we don't get enough sun exposure, mood and energy tend to fluctuate. Journaling, meeting with friends, enjoying "me" time and meditating are all wonderful ways to keep yourself healthy and happy.

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