As the official Medicare Advantage Provider of The American Legion, Wellcare is committed to the health and safety of the communities we serve.
As the temperature drops, it's important to keep both your body and mind warm and healthy. Winter can bring unique challenges, but with a few thoughtful strategies, you can make it through the season feeling your best. At WellCare, we care about your well-being and are here to provide you with tips and resources to keep you strong this winter.
Tips to Stay Warm and Healthy
1. Layer up: Dress in layers to retain body heat. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics as your base layer, and top it off with a warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf.
2. Stay hydrated: Even in colder months, your body needs adequate hydration. Warm drinks like herbal tea or hot water with lemon can be both hydrating and soothing.
3. Boost your immunity: Incorporate immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, leafy greens, garlic, and ginger into your diet. Consider taking a daily multivitamin, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
4. Stay active: Combat the winter blues by staying active indoors. Gentle exercises like yoga, stretching, or walking in a mall can improve circulation and lift your mood.
5. Check your home: Make sure your home is winter-ready. Insulate windows, check heating systems, and use draft stoppers to keep the cold out.
Warm up with a nutritious winter soup
Here’s a soup recipe to keep you warm and nourished this winter:
Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
· 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 onion, chopped
· 3 garlic cloves, minced
· 4 carrots, sliced
· 3 celery stalks, chopped
· 2 cups diced potatoes
· 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
· 1 teaspoon dried thyme
· 1 bay leaf
· Salt and pepper to taste
· 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, and add thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Lower the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add spinach or kale, if desired, and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Resources for veterans
· Local warming centers: Check with your local American Legion post for information on warming centers or shelters in your area.
· Health checkups: Schedule a winter wellness visit with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re in good health.
· Stay connected: Reach out to fellow Legionnaires or join virtual events to combat isolation and stay socially engaged.
Stay safe, stay warm, and take good care of yourself this winter. Together, we’ll weather the season in good health and spirits.
For questions or assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure you're ready for 2025 with a plan that truly works for you.
You showed up for your country. You deserve a Medicare Advantage plan that shows up for you.
Find out which Wellcare Medicare Advantage plan options are available in your area. If you have questions or want to learn more about the plans available to you, please call us at 844-509-0435 or visit wellcare4veterans.com.
The coverage you need and more.
As the official Medicare Advantage Provider of The American Legion, Wellcare is committed to the health and safety of the communities we serve. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve those who have served our country.
- Dispatch