Healthy Tips to Survive the Flu Season

The weather has been changing and we are already starting to see the cold and flu bugs knocking at our doors.  The flu vaccine remains very controversial topic, so if your doctor recommends you get the flu vaccine ask for the facts!  Ask to read the label of the vaccine, I think you might be surprised with what the vaccine company has to say about their own product!  But don’t worry, there are many things you can do throughout the cold and flu season to limit your exposure as well as naturally boost your immunity.

Proper Hygiene – wash your hands frequently and avoid touching around your face will help limit how the virus gets in your system.  This is the oldest advice out there; however, it’s also one of the most neglected.

Eat Healthy – Research shows that certain foods can help boost your immune system, such as garlic and tea.  However, even if you don’t like those foods eating healthy can help keep your body strong.  Processed foods and foods high in sugar can cause an inflammatory reaction throughout your entire body.  This will make you feel tired and weak and will also weaken your immune system over time.  Fruits and vegetables are a great source of antioxidants to help fight off infections.

Take Supplements – While eating healthy is always the best option, there are certain supplements you can take to help give your immune system that extra boost.   

   •  Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) help support your body’s natural inflammatory response and provide antioxidants.  

   •  Probiotics help deliver good bacteria to your digestive tract to help support gut flora and overall immune health.  

   •  Vitamin D is a vitamin that most people are deficient in during the winter months because of the lack of sunlight exposure.  Even adding in fortified foods, most people don’t get enough vitamin D.  

   •  Zinc is needed to produce white blood cells in your body.  Even a slight deficiency can increase your risk of infection.  

   •  Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has long been recognized as an essential nutrient for supporting healthy immune function.

Get Moving and Get Some Rest – Exercise and sleep are two very important factors when it comes to staying healthy and keeping that immune system strong.  Exercise helps keep your stress hormones low, which can weaken your immune system.  Get at least 7 hours of sleep per night.  Just one night of sleep deprivation can weaken your immune system.