As we approach cold and flu season, it’s an ideal time of year to be extra conscious about supporting your immune health. Maintaining a strong immune response is essential for your overall wellbeing, especially this time of year. With that in mind, we here at Washington Health and Drug have put together some of our top tips on how to boost your immune system so you can stay healthy this cold and flu season!
1. Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet
One of the most important steps you can take to help fortify your immune system is making sure that you eat a balanced and healthy diet. Whole foods like meat, fresh fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work to support essential immune processes. When you ensure that you are eating enough of these foods, you are giving your immune system the fuel it needs to properly defend your body from germs and infections.
2. Consider Supplements
While there is no replacement for a healthy and balanced diet, supplements can help to provide an additional boost when needed. One supplement that can be extremely useful in boosting your immune system is Vitamin C, as this essential nutrient is directly linked to immune response. Other supplements can be useful as well, such as Vitamin D and Zinc, which both help to support your immune system. Additionally, you can utilize supplement blends like Active Vira Complete or BetterMune to supply your body with a wide range of helpful nutrients. If you think adding supplements to your routine may be right for you, consult a healthcare professional so you can learn more about this option for how to boost your immune system.
3. Make Sure to Exercise
Another tip for how to boost your immune system is ensuring that you are engaging in regular physical activity. When you exercise, it helps circulate immune cells throughout your body, which helps with your overall immune response. So whether you decide to go for a brisk walk, a bicycle ride, or head to the gym, you are helping to support your immune system when you exercise!
4. Prioritize Your Sleep
In order for your immune system to work properly, it is essential that you are getting enough sleep. While you sleep, your immune system is strengthened against illnesses and infections, giving your body the proper defenses it needs. When you do not get enough sleep, your immune system can struggle to deal with outside threats. Make sure that you’re getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night in order to boost your immune system and help it protect your body.
5. Manage Stress
Stress has a negative effect on the immune system, weakening its overall ability to fight infection and illness. By practicing stress management strategies like deep breathing or meditation, you can help to reduce the impact of stress on your immune system, leaving your body in a better position to protect itself against outside threats.
When you incorporate these suggestions for how to boost your immune system, you’ll be giving your body all of the tools it needs to help keep you healthy. And if you are looking for even more ways to support your immune health, reach out to our team here at Washington Health and Drug and find out how we can assist you on your health journey!
