Doctors warn that temperature changes and the transition from one season to another can produce certain imbalances in the body, such as states of fatigue, exhaustion and headaches. Food is the key factor in helping the body cope.
“Spring asthenia” produces imbalances in the body PHOTO: Archive, Adevărul
The transition from one season to another can produce a series of changes in the body, with very unpleasant effects. We are talking about the so-called “spring asthenia”, a syndrome that significantly affects over two-thirds of Romanians.
In order to keep our immunity good during this period, when many viruses and colds appear, and immunity is lower, doctor Alexandru Nechifor, specialist in internal medicine and gastroenterology, recommends first of all to have a balanced diet and not to overdo it . Equally important are movement, lack of stress and quality sleep.
“Spring asthenia is a phenomenon that many people face every year. Lack of energy, apathy, feeling of weakness, anxiety, appear with the change of season. We can combat these symptoms by adapting the diet and having adequate hydration”claims Dr. Alexandru Nechifor.
Let's eat fruits and vegetables
Since recently the temperatures have fluctuated a lot, and the calendar spring will start shortly, the doctor recommends to counteract the asthenia by consuming as many seasonal fruits and vegetables as possible. He is of the opinion that foods rich in vitamin C and E, magnesium, iron and calcium should not be missing from the diet of every Romanian.
“I always recommend that we use what nature provides us, to consume as much local, seasonal food as possible. We must not put any food in the corner, but carefully determine the correct amount. Next comes the period of salads, radishes, leurda, spinach. Let's eat foods rich in tryptophan – an amino acid that stimulates the secretion of serotonin – such as eggs (but pay attention to the quantity and origin), dairy products, cereals, foods containing vitamins C and E, magnesium, iron and calcium. Therefore, as many fruits and vegetables as possible. Not a day should pass during this period without eating a seasonal salad” claims the doctor.
It is also extremely important not to neglect any food group. Meat, generally red, and fish are a rich source of proteins and minerals that the immune system needs to function effectively.
“Garlic and onion contain powerful sulfur compounds that stimulate lymphocyte activity and increase resistance to disease. Sunflower seeds contain vitamin E, essential Omega-6 fatty acids and proteins that help the immune system. states Dr. Nechifor.
How movement helps us
Movement is very important. It reduces stress, halves inflammation, releases feel-good hormones, and reduces cardiovascular risks.
“If we exercise regularly and manage to maintain our optimal weight, then we can maintain our health. Studies have clearly demonstrated that 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day cuts the risk of colds in half and, over time, increases immunity. If we already have a condition and physical activity is not strictly contraindicated, then it can work wonders. Specifically, it reduces stress, halves inflammation, releases feel-good hormones, and reduces cardiovascular risks. Hydration is essential. We can generally consume water, tea, or products that do not contain too much sugar. Sufficient quantitative, but especially qualitative, sleep helps us get through this period more easily”explains Dr. Alexandru Nechifor.
