GET READY FOR THE WEATHER CHANGE

GET READY FOR THE WEATHER CHANGE

So here we are in the middle of January, emerging from a winter cold wave, and facing the imminent change of weather and the related chances of fevers, colds, and flu.

 

Here are some simple tips to help boost your immune system and ward off weather change woes:

 

Get enough sleep and manage stress. Sleep deprivation and stress increase the hormone cortisol, which in turn suppresses the immune function and leaves you open to infections.

 

Avoid tobacco smoke. If you’re a smoker, consider cutting down or cutting out. If you’re a passive smoker, intentionally keep away from smoke, because it undermines your basic immune defenses and raises the risk of bronchitis and pneumonia, along with middle ear infections in kids.

 

Reduce alcohol intake as excessive consumption impairs the immune system and increases vulnerability to lung infections.

 

Increase your intake of vegetables, fruit, nuts, and seeds, which provide your body with valuable nutrients that will boost your immune system.

 

Consider probiotics. Studies indicate supplements reduce the incidence of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.  Fermented milk products have also been shown to reduce respiratory infections in adults and kids.

 

Get your daily dose of sunlight. Sunlight stimulates the skin’s production of vitamin D. In the summer, a 10-15 minute exposure (minus sunscreen) is sufficient. Low Vitamin D levels can lead to a greater risk of respiratory infection, while Vitamin D supplements reduce the risk of flu.

 

Increase garlic in your food. Garlic is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent and immune booster.

 

Above all, stay positive and happy, as happiness and good health go hand in hand.