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Top Tips for Protecting Your Immune System This Winter

Thanksgiving has passed and the holidays are just around the corner–what an exciting time of year! From the family, friends, and warm feelings to the holiday lights, dinners, and gift-giving aspects, December delivers a lot of warmth despite the chilly weather. As the weather begins to get cooler, it is more important than ever to take measures toward supporting a healthy immune system–especially to protect the ones you love. According to Northwestern Medicine, low temperatures can drastically increase your risk of getting sick. In this blog, we’ll share some useful tips that will help you protect your wellness despite plummeting temperatures.

Up your Water Intake

 

It’s no secret that water is imperative for a happy, healthy body. But did you know that your body relies on water to clear out toxins and other “sludge”? Otherwise, this sludge can weigh you down and keep you feeling ill. Furthermore, water helps white blood cells and other immune system elements reach their destinations to fight bacterial and viral intruders. Many beverages like coffee, tea, and soda actually dehydrate the body. While these beverages are okay in moderation, water is always the best choice, plain and simple. Are you finding that you’re missing the flavors of non-H2O beverages? If so, try infusing your water with fruit for added nutritional benefit and flavor.

Put Food to Work for You

Have a plant explains that while fruit and vegetables cannot prevent illness, they go a long way toward ensuring your body is prepared to fight when an illness occurs. On the other hand, processed meats, fried foods, and baked foods all suppress the immune system, ultimately drowning your body in what can only be described as toxic sludge. By loading up on the vitamins, nutrients, and essential fatty acids found in whole foods like fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, nuts, legumes, protein, and superfoods, you will give your body the tools it needs to both fight infection and keep you healthy.

 

Consider Adding Probiotics to Your Routine

A full 80% of your immune system is controlled by your digestive system and your digestive system relies on healthy bacteria. On the days that you feel bloated and fatigued, chances are good that your gut bacteria is out of balance. If this is the case, you should consider a probiotic. A probiotic adds vital healthy bacteria back into your system so that your immune system can thrive. You can select a probiotic from the store or eat fermented foods like raw sauerkraut and kombucha to get your fill.

Wash Your Hands

The Centers for Disease Control explains that germs can enter the body in various ways, including through the eyes, nose, and mouth. And when you consider how many things your hands come into contact with throughout the day, including your face, it’s easy to see how conveniently germs could enter your body. Rather than risk the occurrence of various illnesses, you must wash your hands regularly to get rid of any hitchhiking germs. It is recommended that you wash your hands in the following scenarios:

  • After using the restroom
  • Before and after preparing food
  • After eating
  • When handling a baby
  • Before and after working with a senior
  • After coming in contact with an ill individual
  • Whenever you handle a pet, pet food, litter, etc.
  • Before and after being in a medical facility
  • After handling garbage
  • Following outdoor recreation
  • Before and after work

Remain Active

Exercise isn’t just important for your physical and mental health. In fact, regular exercise can effectively reduce your chances of getting a cold, flu, and other illnesses. This is the case because physical exercise is capable of flushing bacteria from the lungs and airways. Additionally, regular physical activity can cause a change in the antibodies and white blood cells–the body’s natural illness fighters. Mayo Clinic suggests healthy individuals get a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise weekly.

Get Your Flu Shot

According to Harvard Health Publishing, various studies prove that getting an annual flu shot makes the body stronger and more prepared to fight the infection. With easy access to the flu vaccine at both doctor’s offices and local pharmacies alike, you can’t go wrong with a flu shot. Beyond the flu, the vaccine itself has also proven effective in reducing the occurrence of major cardiac events in those with heart disease.  

Healthier Habits for a Healthy Holiday Season and Beyond

 

If sickness continues to prevail this winter, even with healthier habits, it’s important to consider undergoing some basic wellness bloodwork to determine the cause of your problems. Get started monitoring your health today with 24-7Labs. No insurance or doctor’s script is required and we offer testing anytime with an appointment. To get started, journey over and set an appointment at your earliest convenience.