6 Ways to Boost Your Body’s Natural Defenses Ahead of Cold & Flu Season
by Cascade Ice on October 21, 2024
As the days start to get shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to start thinking about how to stay healthy during cold and flu season. One of the best ways to do this is to boost your immune system, and there are plenty of ways to do this naturally. Small dietary and lifestyle changes may strengthen your body’s natural defenses and help you fight off disease-causing organisms that ramp up during cold and flu season.
Here are six tips to help you stay healthy:
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking enough water each day is crucial for overall health, but did you also know it can boost your immune system? Dehydration can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, and this includes sparkling water like Cascade Ice!
Get Some Shut-Eye
When you’re well-rested, your body can better fight off infection. Plus, rest can boost your mood and make you less likely to get sick in the future. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Eat Whole Foods
A healthy diet is another important factor in boosting your immune system. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods contain essential nutrients that help your body fight off infection.
Get Daily Exercise
No need to overthink it. Regular exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also help boost your immune system. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Manage Stress
Stress can wreak havoc on your body, so it’s important to find healthy ways (and ways that you actually enjoy!) to manage stress. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or simply being outside in the sun or taking a leisurely walk.
Take supplements
While it’s important to supplement your diet with a multivitamin on a daily basis, it’s especially important to get enough of vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and K as well as folate, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc during cold and flu season. These vitamins and minerals have specifically shown to help reduce your chances of getting sick as well as shorten the time you’re sick.
What do you do to prepare for cold and flu season? Let us know in the comments below or share a photo! Remember to “like” and “follow” us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
