Article Reviewed By The Medical Faculty and Advisory Review Board
In the next few weeks, you’ll probably notice more coughing and sneezing coming from others around you.
The flu can stress your immune system and lead to a higher risk of a flare-up in chronic illnesses or other health concerns.
Keep yourself healthy this flu season with these five steps for boosting your immune system!
1. Get on a Regular Sleep Schedule
Easier said than done, but making a conscious effort to slow down and rest when you can is a huge help to your immune system.
When you get poor sleep, or you’re sleep deprived your body will increase its cortisol levels which can suppress immune system functions.
2. Increase Vitamin Intake
Providing your body with the right nutrients is essential. Be sure to stock up on Vitamin C, Echinacea, and Zinc.
Be sure to discuss your health concerns with your doctor. They should be able to help you determine the vitamins you need this cold and flu season.
3. Watch Your Sugar and Alcohol Consumption
We know it’s easier said than done, especially during the holidays, but the truth is sugar and alcohol can suppress your immune system!
We’re not saying you have to skip out on all the holiday goodies but remember moderation is key.
4. Get Your Gut Right
We’ve skimmed the surface of how important gut health is, but to give you a refresher your gut houses microbes that help regulate our metabolism, weight, and immune system (among many other things).
Eating certain fermented foods and taking probiotics can help get your gut in shape. See all of our specialized gut health treatments here.
5. Exercise
Maintaining a regular workout routine will help keep your body in tip-top shape to fight off the flu, and other harmful illnesses that you may come into contact with.
Exercise will boost your circulation allowing antibodies to travel throughout your body as well as helping relieve stress and slow the release of stress hormones in your body.
We Can Help
As flu season is fast approaching, we hope you’ll consider these five tips! A few more gentle reminders to keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy are:
- Wash your hands! The flu is contagious so be diligent about keeping your hands clean.
- Clean contamination hot spots like phones, computers, even your TV remote! Cleaners with tea tree oil are a great option as this oil has natural antibacterial properties.
- Stay home if you are sick. Your workmates will appreciate the gesture, trust us.
- Stay hydrated! Carry around a bottle of water (and don’t share!)
We are dedicated to educating our patients just as much as we are to helping you stay healthy! Schedule a consultation today.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
