Chiropractic Tip of the Month: Outsmart the Flu and Colds
Cold and flu viruses can live longer in cold and dry conditions and are more easily passed around during the winter months. Ensuring a healthy immune system is your best defence.
- Be happy! Research shows that people with high positive emotion scores produce a protein, called cytokine, that boosts other immune cells in fighting off infections.
- People who exercise frequently and regularly don’t get sick nearly as often as those who are less active. Exercise seems to increase your body’s production of immune cells.
- The probiotics found in yoghurt and in capsule form may promote a healthier immune system and result in fewer sick days.
- Regularly eating brightly coloured fruits and vegetables can really boost immunity.
- Ginseng has been shown to help prevent colds if taken when symptoms first appear.
- Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, available from your health food store, practitioner or pharmacy, is thought to reduce cold and flu risk by strengthening immune defences.
- Receiving adequate vitamin D is related to fewer incidents of respiratory infections.
- Taking Vitamin C may shorten the duration of cold and flu related symptoms.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and be aware that antibacterial hand washes may make it easier for bacteria to build resistance.
