During the winter season, millions of cases of the common cold and flu are reported each year. As winter approaches, there is an increased risk of illnesses like colds, coughs, and flu. Although we may not avoid exposure to germs, there are protective strategies to boost our immune system and achieve cold and flu prevention during the colder months. Below, we explore some practical natural tips to boost your immune system and keep you healthy during the winter!
Eat more nutrient-rich foods.
Ensure your diet consists of nutrients like vitamins C and D and Zinc, which are beneficial in boosting your immune system. Such foods include red meat, broccoli, salmon, oysters, tuna, orange juice, and tomatoes. It’s also essential to maintain a balanced diet to help keep your body properly fueled and healthy. A diet incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps boost your immune system.
Take a supplement
Taking supplements helps boost your immune system during the winter season. For instance, zinc and vitamin D prevent bacteria and fungi from entering your body. Vitamin D deficiency results in an increased risk of flu and infection. Vitamin C is another essential antioxidant that helps protect the body from disease and keeps new immune cells growing.
Adopt healthy habits
Healthy habits can help you boost your immune system naturally and prevent colds and flu during the winter months. Some of the healthy habits to consider include:
1. Enough sleep
Sleep plays a significant role in your overall health. When you sleep, your immune system releases cytokines, an essential protein responsible for immune system cell growth and protection of your body from infection. When you are sick, you need more of the cytokines, so it is essential to have enough sleep.
2. Drink plenty of water.
Water helps your blood to keep pumping, essential for your immune function. Water also assists in transporting nutrients throughout the body, including vital nutrients in fighting off infections. Proper hydration also helps keep all your organs functioning properly, including your immune system. As a result, you are less likely to get cold and flu during the winter season.
3. Exercise regularly
Moderate exercise helps boost your immune system by increasing the circulation of your immune cells. When your immune cells move correctly through your body, they can better protect you from infection.
4. Wash your hands frequently
The importance of washing our hands frequently has always been emphasized, and following the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become even more apparent. Washing your hands helps minimize the spread of germs. Ensure you frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap to eliminate germs and avoid transferring them to your body through your eyes, mouth, or nose.
5. Reduce stress
When stressed, your body produces fewer lymphocytes (white blood cells) that boost immunity. Stress can also increase your cortisol levels, leading to inflammation and a dip in immune levels. Reducing your stress levels can help keep your immune system functioning properly to fight off any infections.
6. Try chiropractic care
Winter weather increases stress levels, and chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Chiropractic adjustment helps reduce stress by promoting relaxation and balancing the body’s stress response. As stress decreases, your immune system can operate more effectively, providing a better defense against cold and flu, which is common in the winter season.
7. Need more support!
Remember, seeking professional guidance is okay; everyone needs a helping hand occasionally. If you would like a more detailed explanation of winter wellness and how to boost your immune system naturally, we recommend talking to Dr. Jason Jones at our Chiropractic office in Elizabeth City, NC.
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