Wintertime has a lot of unique beauty to offer after a couple of seasons of heat and humidity, but there are also some downsides. In addition to having to shovel snow (depending on where you live), cold weather is also a prime time for illnesses. The good news is that you can prevent the common cold, flu, and other ailments by following tips such as these to support your immune system this winter.
1. Prioritize Relaxation
How much time do you spend relaxing? If you maintain a busy schedule, it can be easy to overwhelm yourself. While there are benefits to being productive, it is necessary to find a balance that includes enough downtime to prevent stress and other negative effects of overworking your body and mind. Ways to prioritize relaxation more include:
- Meditating
- Keeping a journal
- Laugh more
- Breathing deeply
- Listening to music
- Stretching
- Reading a book
- Watching a funny movie
By making time for these sorts of activities, you can enjoy your day more while also supporting your health.
2. Customize Your Vitamin Experience
Your diet has a lot to do with your body’s immune system. Making sure you are eating and drinking the right foods and beverages is essential if you want to keep your body well. With that said, however, consuming the ideal amount of nutrients can be a challenge for many people. This is where helpful products such as USANA’s personalized vitamins can help. With options to choose a vitamin that specifically meets your individual vitamin deficiencies, you can support your immune system in a way that targets exactly what you need.
3. Get Enough Sleep
How many hours of shuteye are you getting each night? If it is less than seven to nine hours, you may not be feeling your best. In addition to increasing your risk of wintertime illnesses, inadequate sleep can also lead to irritability, reduced alertness, poor motor skills and attention problems. To support your immune system and start feeling better, try to make sleep a priority each night. If possible, do not overwork yourself during late hours and try to make a bedtime ritual.
4. Eat Nutritious Foods
Food is essential to functioning, but choosing healthy foods can make or break your body’s immune system. In general, consuming fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains are good ways to maintain a healthy weight and keep your body feeling healthy; however, there are some foods that offer additional nutrients and health benefits. For example, some health superfoods to consider adding to your diet include blueberries, dark chocolate, turmeric, fish and broccoli.
5. Hydrate Regularly
The human body is around 60 percent water. That is more than half of you. With water having so much to do with regular bodily functions, it makes sense that it can also have a major impact on the immune system. According to medical experts, adults should drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day. Doing so can optimize energy, help you keep a normal temperature, carry nutrients and oxygen to your cells and help you fight germs.
6. Increase Physical Activity
Regular movement is another factor that can have a big impact on a person’s immune system. If you struggle to find time to fit in exercise, you are definitely not alone. However, physical activity does not have to mean you buy a gym membership. By adjusting your daily routine to incorporate activities such as taking the stairs, choosing walking over driving or taking a jog around your neighborhood every morning, you can increase physical activity and support your immune system.
7. Wash Your Hands Frequently
When it comes to fighting the cold and flu, few things compare to washing your hands. As one of the most simple yet effective ways to avoid germs, regular hand washing can support your immunity significantly. A simple rinse in water is not enough though. Always use soap and scrub your palms and fingers for at least 20 to 30 seconds. Make sure to get under your nails as well.
You can fight the common cold and other illnesses this winter by prioritizing your health. Follow tips such as these to help you stay well.
