Autumn is a beautiful time of year, but the cozy sweaters and pumpkin decorations are also signs of something else – cold and flu season. Boost your chances of avoiding illness this time of year with these five tips for staying healthy through cold and flu season.
GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Quality sleep is essential for your body and mind. We need time to recharge and recover, so don’t short-change yourself. A nightly bedtime that calms your mind will help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested. Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night to keep your immune system firing.
EAT A BALANCED DIET
A varied, healthful diet makes a huge difference to the body. In the colder months, make sure to include foods rich in vitamin C, such as spinach and citrus fruits. Foods high in natural live cultures like Greek yogurt can also add extra immunity to invading bacteria. It’s also a good idea to supplement with vitamin D. Cooler, shorter days mean less sunshine, so supplementing with a high quality vitamin will help keep your levels up.
KEEP YOUR HANDS CLEAN
Viruses can live on different surfaces for up to 48 hours, so get in the habit of washing your hands when you come home and before preparing or eating meals.
STAY ACTIVE
Keep your energy levels up and your immune system strong with a regular fitness schedule. Breaking a sweat a few times a week is important, even when temperatures drop, so create a workout routine you can follow no matter how cold it gets.
VISIT THE CHIROPRACTOR
Studies have shown boosted immune function following chiropractic adjustments, as well as shorter lifespans for colds. That’s because of how the endocrine system connects the nervous system to the immune system. By improving nervous system function through proper movement of the spinal bones, you can help the immune system reach optimal function.
Stay healthy through cold and flu season so that you can enjoy these beautiful autumn days. There are pumpkins to be enjoyed, ciders to be savored, and memories to be made! Schedule a visit with Dr. Lynelle McSweeney in Reno today, and keep that immune system strong.