The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) warned this Tuesday, December 23rd, about the precautions to be taken due to the cold, remembering that the drop in temperatures increases the risk of worsening chronic diseases and asking the population to protect themselves.
The DGS recommends that citizens avoid sudden changes in temperature, dress in layers, adjusting their clothing to the environment, protect their extremities with a hat, gloves and warm socks and wear non-slip footwear to prevent falls.
As rrecommendations, published on the organization’s website, arise at a time when the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) predicts cold weather in the coming days, with some districts in the North region recording negative temperatures.
Keeping your skin hydrated, especially your face, hands and lips, drinking water and hot drinks and eating soup are other recommendations, so that the population stays hydrated and warm.
Alcohol should be avoided, as, according to the DGS, “it creates a false sensation of heat and increases the risk of hypothermia”.
At home, you should avoid sitting for more than an hour at a time, to reduce the risk of developing health problems and help keep your body warm.
The population is also advised to eat “more frequent meals, shortening the hours between meals”, and to increase the consumption of foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as, for example, fruits and vegetables, as they help to reduce the appearance of infections.
On the other hand, you should avoid consuming fried foods, with a lot of fat or sugar.
The DGS also asks for special attention to the most vulnerable: “small children, elderly people, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers or people in isolation or homelessness”.
It also advises the population to plan in advance and confirm that they have enough medicines and food, in case it becomes more difficult to leave the house, and, for those who cannot leave the house, it recommends that they identify other people who can help them get food and medicines.
Outside, due to the cold, physical exertion should be avoided.