Okay, we accept it—cold and flu season is here. But, as the saying goes, your best defense is a good offense. Feel your best and fight off seasonal setbacks by giving your immune system a boost with these four tips and tricks.
Get moving
Regular exercise is a pillar of overall health and wellness but that doesn’t mean you need to hit the gym around the clock. Simply moving your body—in a way that feels good and gets your heart rate up—is all it takes. Try a yoga class to improve your flexibility, a long walk or hike to improve your stamina, or strength training to build muscle. Not only will your body and immune system thank you, but exercise has also been shown to have a positive effect on our emotional wellbeing, helping to relieve stress and keep you in good spirits.
Get some rest
Tired? Don’t push it. Rest is a huge part of staying healthy. Getting a good night’s sleep allows your body to recharge ensuring you’re better able to fight infections and keep germs at bay. In fact, some research has shown that select aspects of your immune system rev up at night meaning while you’re catching forty winks, your body is doing its part to keep you well.
Eat your fruits and veggies
It’s no secret that a balanced diet is part of a healthy lifestyle. Eating a variety of fresh produce, whole grains, and proteins ensures you’re fueling your body with a mix of important vitamins and minerals that support beneficial microbes within your body. While it might sound gross, microbes are a key component of the digestive process and have been shown to stimulate activity in your immune system. Not to mention, fresh fruits and veggies—like citrus, berries, and spinach—are also a great source of antioxidants which support healing and a healthy immune system.
Take a vitamin
Sometimes we just need a little extra. Vitamins and supplement powders can be a great, convenient way to ensure your body and immune system get an added boost of nutrients, energy, and wellness support. Plus, you can easily focus on the specifics vitamins and minerals you don’t get enough of in your diet. If you’re unsure where to start, talk to a professional for tailored advice to address your concerns and support your health and wellness goals.
Stay healthy and happy!