Winter workout tips for Januvia users

When taking Januvia, you'll want to maintain a healthy diet and regular workout routine in order to keep your blood sugar in order. Now that the first snow has fallen, you may need to take some added precautions when exercising outdoors.

Your attire
While it can be tempting the bundle up with a thick, bulky coat before heading outside for a run, it's actually not in your best interest. Make sure that you don't dress too warm for the conditions by suiting up in light-weight and breathable layers. To start, you'll want to choose material that pulls sweat away from your body first. A fleece jacket will help keep you insulated, but you should top that off with a waterproof layer.

Don't forget your fingers, toes and ears when suiting up either. These areas are all susceptible to frostbite when the temperatures are low, so they need some extra care and attention. Double up on the gloves and socks, or opt for thermal varieties if available. As for your ears, a hat or headband should do the trick.

The weather
Look out the window and check the local weather forecast before you head outside for a job in the winter months. If it's not cold enough to snow and is raining instead, you are apt to get sick. Plus, both snow and rain can make the surface slippery, putting you at risk of falling and injuring yourself. Also, if it gets too cold, you may be better off hitting the gym instead.

As you well know, it stays darker longer in the winter months. That means whether you work out in the morning or evening, you're likely to be faced with poor visibility. Plan accordingly by wearing reflective clothing if you're going to hit the pavement around dusk or dawn.

Other tips
Even though it might seem silly, sunscreen is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer if you're going to be outside. The snow provides a great reflector for UVA and UVB rays produced by the sun, thus putting you at risk of getting a burn.

Although it may be tempting to dive into a carb-loaded meal after a long workout, be aware of what you are eating in the winter. Especially around the holidays, our bodies crave carbohydrates and other unhealthy treats that are easily accessible at holiday parties. Ensure that you watch what you eat so that your Januvia prescription can do its job.