It’s that time of year again. The sniffles are going around and before you know it, everyone in the office is out sick except for you. You’re not sure how you’ve managed to stay healthy while everyone else is dropping like flies, but you’re not complaining. However, you also know that it’s only a matter of time before you succumb to whatever virus is making the rounds. So, what can you do to boost your immunity quickly so you can avoid getting sick? Here are a few tips.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
We all know we should be aiming for seven to eight hours of shut-eye per night, but sometimes life gets in the way and that’s just not possible. However, if you can squeeze in an extra hour or two of sleep, do it. Your body will thank you by being better able to fight off sickness. - Eat your greens.
Yes, mom was right—you should eat your vegetables. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with vitamins and minerals that help support a healthy immune system. So load up your plate at dinner tonight and enjoy some delicious greens. - Drink up—but not alcohol.
Water is essential for keeping your body hydrated and functioning properly. So drink up! But avoid alcohol, which can actually dehydrate you and make you more susceptible to illness. - Get moving.
Exercise isn’t just good for your physical health—it’s also good for your mental health and can help boost your immune system. So get up and move your body for 30 minutes each day, even if it’s just a brisk walk around the block. - Take supplements—but not too many.
Supplements like vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea can help support a healthy immune system—just don’t overdo it as too much of a good thing can actually be bad for you. Talk to your doctor about which supplements are right for you and take them as directed on the package instructions.
A strong immune system is key to staying healthy all year round, especially during cold and flu season when viruses are easy to catch (and hard to shake). Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to give your immunity a quick boost so you can stay well all season long! Get plenty of sleep, eat your greens, drink lots of water (but avoid alcohol), get moving every day, and take supplements as needed—but not too many! By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to staying happy & healthy all winter long!