Fight Back This Flu Season With Five Simple Tips

No one wants to get sick. Between flu shots, home remedies, and over-the- counter  quick fixes, everyone seems to have their own idea of the best way to  ward off those bugs that keep us bed ridden. While some of the best home remedies work, and work well, there’s a science to keeping our bodies healthy. If you’re starting to feel run down it’s probably too late. Prevention starts when you’re feeling your best! Adding these five quick fixes into your wellness plan may be the best chance for staying strong this cold and flu season.

Get some sleep!

As our lives get busier the demand for sleep increases. Currently the recommended nightly slumber is between 8-9 hours for your body to perform its best. The average working class American gets less than seven hours of sleep per night. During sleep our bodies repair itself, reboot our immune system and process information learned during the day. Adding one extra hour gives you an added boost to the immune system that can help keep you healthy this winter.

Decrease Sugar!

Everyone knows that sugar should be eaten in moderation. But did you know that your immune system could be depleted for up to an hour after eating your favorite treat?! White blood cells that fight infection are fueled by vitamin c. However, sugar molecules temporarily bind to those vitamin c sites weakening our ability to fight infection. Choose healthier snacks this winter and ditch the sugar!

Increase Vitamin D!

Last year 70% of Americans were lacking in vitamin D3. We get most of our D vitamins from the sun, which may explain why winter layers block our bodies from absorbing this vital vitamin. D3 enables your body to produce over 200 peptides responsible for fighting infections. Supplementing 1000 IUs per day will give your body an additional boost against that winter chill.

Take a breather!

Stress less this season. When we are experiencing any type of stress the body produces cortisol. Cortisol lowers the number of white blood cells in the body making you more prone to illness. It’s that simple. Hit the yoga mat, mind your mindfulness, take a time out and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Hydration Nation!

Most Americans are dehydrated. Which is terrible because our bodies are mostly made up of water! Water not only helps flush toxins out of our system but it increases the amount of lymphatic fluid, which filters bacteria and waste from our tissues. Increase your intake this winter. A good rule is to drink at least half of your weight in ounces of water each day. Your body will thank you for it.