Moul Mouj Health Corner

Q: My mother’s feet stay cold even under blankets. What can help?
A: Cold feet may signal poor circulation or neuropathy. Encourage ankle rolls and light foot massage with mustard oil before bed. Wear pure wool socks (not tight). Keep feet dry, and warm them with covered hot water bottles—never place kangri or heater directly near skin.

Q: My father coughs more when the kangri is used. Why?
A: Kangri smoke carries carbon particles that irritate airways. Use it in well-ventilated rooms and clean the charcoal regularly. Place a small earthen bowl of salt water nearby—it absorbs some smoke. Add clove to tea to soothe the throat naturally.

Q: My grandmother drinks less water in winter. Is that a problem?
A: Yes. Cold weather dulls thirst, but dehydration thickens blood and raises BP risk. Offer herbal teas, homemade soups, or warm water with a bit of honey and lemon. Even fruits like oranges and apples count as hydration. Keep a small flask near her bedside for gentle sipping until 4 PM, as drinking water later in the evening can increase night-time urination.

Q: My ageing mother complains her skin burns and itches in winter. What should we do?
A: Dry “winter skin” worsens with long hot baths. Use lukewarm water, gentle glycerin soap, and apply coconut or mustard oil before bathing—it seals moisture. Cover limbs with soft cotton before woolens. A teaspoon of flaxseed oil or walnuts daily also nourishes skin from within.

Q: My father feels sleepy all the time during cold days. Is that normal?
A: Excess sleepiness can be due to reduced sunlight (low serotonin). Encourage late morning light exposure—sun for 15 minutes works like medicine. Keep rooms well-lit, play light music and involve him in simple tasks to beat “winter slowdown.”

Q: My elderly mother’s lips and nose bleed slightly in winter. What causes this?
A: Dry heaters and cold air damage nasal lining. Use saline drops or steam inhalation at night. Keep a water bowl near heaters and eat foods rich in vitamin C (amla, oranges) to strengthen capillaries.

Q: Can too many woolens cause health issues?
A: Yes. Over-layering traps sweat, causing rashes and itching. Dress “light-to-heavy”—cotton closest to skin, wool outside. Air clothes daily in sunlight to kill germs. Avoid synthetic thermals—they block ventilation.

Q: Why do my knees and joints ache more during winter?
A: Cold weather can tighten muscles and reduce joint lubrication, making pain worse in arthritis. Keep joints warm, stay active indoors and continue prescribed medication or physiotherapy.

Q: Is it true that eating curd in winter causes cough or chest congestion?
A: Not for everyone. Cold curd may trigger symptoms in few with sinus or respiratory issues. Prefer room-temperature or mildly warm curd during winter to stay safe.

Q: Can diet really help joint pain?

  A: Yes. Omega-3-rich foods (fish, flaxseed), turmeric, green vegetables, and calcium-rich foods support joint health. Avoid excessive sugar, fried food, and red meat.

Q: My father uses an electric blanket all night. Is it safe?

  A: Avoid overnight use. Continuous heat may cause dehydration, burns, or worsen dry skin. Warm the bed first, then switch off before sleeping.

Q: My mother complains of body stiffness after using electric heaters. Why?
A: Dry, hot air dehydrates muscles. Keep humidity by placing a wet towel near the heater. Encourage stretching every hour and gentle oil massage at bedtime. Sip lukewarm water often—most stiffness is due to “hidden dehydration.”

Q: Can what we eat really keep us warm in winter?
A: Absolutely. Choose “warming” foods—dates, nuts, sesame seeds, turmeric milk, lentil soups, and whole grains. A pinch of cinnamon or ginger in tea boosts circulation naturally. Avoid skipping meals; steady energy keeps body temperature stable.

NOTE: These responses are for general awareness. Always consult a doctor for medical advice tailored to individual needs.
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