As the leaves start to fall and the bright shades of summer give way to the muted hues of fall, it’s time to prepare your body for the coming cold and flu season. Use the fall immune boosting checklist below to help naturally improve your immune system and experience fewer illnesses this year.
Stay Hydrated
Water, the essence of life, is crucial for immune health. It's a key component of lymphatic fluid, along with lymphocytes, the white blood cells that fight infection. By drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, you keep your lymphatic fluid circulating, removing waste products, toxins, and impurities, including microbes.
Keep Stress Low
Excess stress can overwork your immune system. Daily stressors, both large and small, can overwork your immune system, reducing its ability to keep you healthy. Make time for self-care each day with meditation, reading, walking, stretching, or just quiet reflection.
Get Proper Sleep
Proper sleep is a non-negotiable for immune health. Not getting enough sleep can reduce antibody production and increase the risk of infection. Studies show that people who sleep less than seven hours a night are three times more likely to get the common cold, so make sure you're getting the rest you need.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise, even just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a day, is a powerful tool for boosting your immune system. It stimulates cellular immunity and increases the circulation of immune cells in your body, helping your immune system detect infection and illness earlier.
Add Probiotic Foods to Your Diet
Since over 80% of your immune system is in your gut, gut health and a healthy diet are some of the most critical factors in immune health. Some of the best foods to boost immunity are those that contain probiotics, like Apple Cider Vinegar, Kimchi, Kombucha, Sauerkraut, Tempeh, Tofu, and Yogurt.
Spice Up Your Life
Did you know that an improved immune system could be as close as your spice rack? Many common kitchen herbs are powerhouse allies when it comes to immune support. Some helpful spices to add to your life include:
Cinnamon
The active, infection-fighting component of cinnamon is called cinnamaldehyde, and it has been shown to relieve and treat respiratory tract infections. It may also inhibit the growth of bacteria.
Raw Garlic
One tiny clove of garlic is filled with high levels of calcium, potassium, and sulfuric compounds – all of which may help to wipe out bacteria and infection.
Rosemary
This kitchen staple is a rich source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help to boost the immune system and reduce infection.
Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may prevent certain viruses from infecting the upper respiratory tract by stimulating the respiratory cells to secrete an antiviral protein.
Oregano
Oregano is a potent antimicrobial. Studies have shown that oregano is an effective tool against 23 different species of infection-causing bacteria.
Thyme
Thyme contains high levels of Vitamin C, which stimulates the production of white blood cells to strengthen the immune system. It also has a long history of relieving bronchitis, asthma, colds, flu, allergies, and blocked sinuses.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been shown to modulate immune cells, inhibit inflammatory responses, and enhance antibody responses. Turmeric should always be combined with black pepper to increase its efficacy.
Consider Folk Remedies
Traditional immune-boosting folk remedies have stood the test of time as allies for the cold and flu season. Two of the most popular, Fire Cider and Four Thieves Vinegar, are easy to make using everyday kitchen staples like herbs, spices, and apple cider vinegar.
Upper Cervical Care
Did you know that Upper Cervical Care is one of the best things you can do to boost your immune system naturally? Upper cervical chiropractic focuses on the connection between your neck, brainstem, and central nervous system. A healthy central nervous system is the most crucial factor in your ability to fight off whatever colds you encounter. With regular upper cervical adjustments at Atlas Specific, we can help your body learn to heal itself naturally.
This cold and flu season, combine good rest, low stress, quality sleep, healthy foods, and spices with upper cervical care at Atlas Specific and find yourself the perfect recipe for a healthier season. Contact us today by dropping by 1800 E 3rd Ave # 108, call us at 970 – 259 – 6803, or click the link below to schedule a free consultation.
Notice of Disclaimer:
We are doctors of upper cervical chiropractic, but we are NOT necessarily YOUR doctors. All content and information on this website are for informational and educational purposes only, do not constitute medical advice, and reading or interacting with this site does not establish any form of the patient-doctor relationship. Although we strive to provide accurate information, the information presented here is not intended as a substitute for any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your particular area of need before making medical decisions.
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