5 Easy Steps to Boost your Immune System

Cold and Flu Season is upon us and it seems like everyone I know is getting sick! So far I have managed to stay cold and flu free using these simple tips below.

Get Your Zzz’s- Chronic sleep deprivation reduces the body’s ability to fight colds and flus. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Avoid screens of any kind one hour before bed, and go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday, including weekends!
Get Moving- Moderate amounts of exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of developing an upper respiratory tract infection, a.k.a. the common cold. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as vigorous walking or weight lifting.
Eat the Rainbow- Fruits and vegetables contain powerful antioxidants that support our immune system and decrease the duration and intensity of cold symptoms. The best sources include dark leafy greens and berries.
Reduce Stress- Research has demonstrated a link between long-standing stress and an impaired immune system. Cortisol, our stress hormone, can reduce the effectiveness of immune cells critical for killing germs and preventing infection. Find simple ways to reduce stress in your life; good examples include meditation, deep breathing techniques, and setting aside 30 minutes of ‘me time’ every day.
Wash Your Hands- Washing your hands properly will help prevent you from contracting and spreading colds and flus this winter. To wash hands properly, lather with soap and water, rub together vigorously for at least 20 seconds, then rinse under running water and pat dry.

If you are the type of person who gets multiple cold and flus every year, this could be a sign of a poor functioning immune system. As an naturopathic intern, I can help find the root cause of this issue, and use evidence-based botanical and lifestyle remedies to get you feeling better in no time.