As the chilly weather sets in, it’s crucial to prioritise your health and wellbeing. Try this practical advice to help you stay healthy, fend off those pesky viruses, and keep your immune system in top shape.
- Get adjusted by your chiropractor
Chiropractic adjustments have been shown in research to positively affect the levels of chemicals in your body that are important for a healthy immune system. Scientists don’t know yet if that means chiropractic care will improve your immune system in a way that will help prevent you from getting sick, or whether chiropractic will reduce your symptoms if you get sick, or shorten the duration of your illness. - Get plenty of rest
Studies show that a lack of sleep will decrease your immunity level. Lack of sleep can lead to a decrease in immunity, and makes you more prone to infections and viruses. Make sure you prioritise good quality sleep to keep your immune system in tip top shape. - Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is an essential step to help your body to fight against any germs that you might be exposed to. Every cell in your body – organs, tissues, joints, muscles and more – need adequate water to function properly. Water is needed to remove waste from the body also; it helps flush your system of toxins and any viruses that it may have picked up. Alkaline water contains great minerals for your immunity and overall health so give yourself an extra boost and start drinking plenty of water, today. - Avoid sugar
Avoiding sugar is a very important aspect of holistic wellness and optimal health. To keep your immune system functioning at its best, be mindful of the amount of sugar that you consume in a day. Sugar reduces the efficiency of your immune system to fight infection and viruses so if you are already sick, it will make it harder for your body to fight for you. There is excessive sugar in processed foods, sugary drinks and snacks so opt for a diet high in whole foods to give your body the chance to fight off those wintery bugs. - Experiment with ginger
Have you ever tried ginger tea? This is the perfect antidote when you feel that you’re getting sick and it has direct anti-inflammatory effects as well as antibacterial properties. It’s a tried and tested natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat the common cold and flu. If you don’t like tea, try it in a smoothie, or add to a meal for an easy way to support your immune system. - Boost antioxidants with green tea
Boost your antioxidant level by adding green tea to your daily routine. Green tea has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including boosting your immune system – antioxidants in green tea can help fight against harmful free radicals that can damage cells and weaken the immune system. Try drinking a cup of green tea in the morning or midday for a natural and healthy immune boost. - Flavour with garlic
Garlic is an incredible food that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, and it’s also an amazing booster of the immune system. Garlic is shown to have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, making it a useful natural remedy in fighting off infections and illnesses. The immune-boosting effects of garlic are stronger when it’s eaten raw, so try adding minced garlic to your meals or eating a raw clove a day to give your immune system an extra boost. You can roast a whole clove and spread on cracker if you like that caramelised flavour. - Vitamin C and zinc
Vitamin C and zinc are essential nutrients that play important roles in supporting a healthy immune system. Both of these nutrients are known to provide protection against immune system deficiencies and can help reduce the severity and duration of illnesses. When taking zinc, it’s important to take it with food to prevent nausea or an upset stomach. Incorporating foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus and leafy greens, and foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, into your diet can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to support a strong immune system. Additionally, supplements containing vitamin C and zinc can be a useful addition to your daily routine, especially during cold and flu season. - Use coconut oil
Coconut oil is a great addition to your diet and it has anti-viral properties – perfect for fighting off the winter bugs! Eat a teaspoon of coconut oil a day – you can add it to your morning smoothie, or use it as a cooking oil too. - Stay positive
Emotions play an important role in your body and a positive outlook can do wonders for your physical health and wellbeing. Try to manage stress and negative emotions with activities that you enjoy – like exercise in nature, spend time with supportive family and friends, or even just watch a funny movie. Remember to keep smiling because it’s a really simple way to improve your mood and support your immune system through the colder months.
Get in touch with our chiropractors at Sustainable Health, in Newtown Wellington, if you’d like a chiropractic adjustment to start your optimal wellness journey through winter.
