Today's Health Tip

Dressing up for the winter...

Wearing a few layers of different materials if the best way to keep you warm. Each layer should have its own purpose.

The bottom layer or underwear should keep you dry. Make sure to pay attention to the material of your undies, as cotton will absorb your sweat but it will hold it. You will need a fabric that will allow your sweat to pass through, such as synthetics or silk. Thermal underwear are an excellent choice.

The middle layer should be there to put some insulation to trap your body's heat. Best choices are wool and down, as both materials breathe and will allow any moisture to evaporate while at the same time are excellent to hold the heat.

The outer layer should function as a shell to protect you from the cold wind, rain or snow. Best choices are synthetic fabrics such as polyester, the key here is that it should be waterproof and breathable.

Hats. Covering your head is key. We lose a lot heat through our head.

Feet and hands. The layering concept described above, works excellent for both feet and hands. Mittens are warmer than gloves. You could wear a thin pair of gloves and some toasty mittens, or find some mittens that already come in layers.
Wear two pairs of socks, the inner pair to keep you dry and the outer pair to keep you warm. For the inner pair you could wear socks made out of polypropylene or silk and for the outer pair you could wear wool socks.