With winter just around the corner, many of us are looking forward to putting our feet up, seeing loved ones, and enjoying the holiday season. However, with experts saying you’re more likely to get sick during the colder months, you need to do everything you can to keep your immune system in check. No one wants to deal with a pesky cold or the flu, so here are several things that can boost your immune system this winter.
Check out 7 proven ways to boost your immune system in winter…
#1. Cut down on stress
Experts agree that stress can be linked to a ton of illnesses we experience, even in the winter. The best way to fix this take out the time to relax. Take a chill, read a book, meditate, do some yoga, etc to help you cut back on the stress and inevitably help your immune system.
#2. Reduce sugar intake
Sugar is potentially damaging to your immune system because of its tendency to cause inflammations in the body, making it a thriving ground for microbes of the flu. This winter, reduce your sugar intake to improve your overall well-being. Your gut will thank you.
#3. Get more sleep
If there is one thing you can do to boost your immune system, it’s to get more sleep. With so many of us constantly rushing off our feet, the idea of having more time in bed may feel like a dream. However, taking simple measures like unwinding before bed or removing distractions can aid sleep and help you wake up feeling refreshed.
#4. Make time for exercise
Physical activity benefits your immune system in all kinds of ways. For starters, exercise increases blood flow and gets rid of bacteria in your airways. Keeping active also strengthens antibodies and reduces stress hormones. Whether you love running, playing sports, or going to the gym, making time for exercise can only be a good thing for your mind and body.
#5. Drink more fluids
Upping your fluid intake is a must when it comes to strengthening your immune system. Drinking plenty of water will keep you hydrated and add more protection to your health and well-being. Other fluids like kombucha tea are said to boost the immune system too; kombucha brands like RISE may benefit you.
#6. Maintain a healthy weight
It goes without saying that the more pounds you carry, the less immunity you have. This means if you’re overweight or obese, you’re at a higher risk of getting a viral or bacterial infection, not to mention having a decreased response to some vaccinations. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is vital for keeping safe, healthy, and well. As you start to lose weight, you should notice a huge improvement in your immunity.
#7. Don’t smoke
There are no good reasons to smoke. Whether you’ve recently picked up the habit or you’ve smoked for many years, over time, smoking can compromise the balance of the immune system. Also, smokers are at an increased risk of several autoimmune and immune disorders. To boost your immune system now is the time to stop smoking for good.
#8. Wash your hands
Simple measures like washing your hands with soap and water can play a huge part in boosting your immune system. We forget just how much bacteria are on our hands, so if you’re not careful, you could pick up nasty bugs from others that could see you falling ill during winter. Therefore, getting into the habit of washing your hands frequently is key for keeping your immune system in check.
#9. Eat well
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a necessity for your immune system. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that help support your body’s natural immune response. Simple changes like adding more fruits and vegetables to your plate can make a real difference.
A healthy immune system keeps you protected by forming a barrier that stops antigens from entering your body. Doing any of the above can strengthen your immune system and minimize the risk of you falling ill during the winter.
Featured image: @sinqobile.tusani/Instagram
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