Here’s a quick fact, our immune system works hard around the clock. No matter the day, week, or season because it needs to protect our bodies from harmful substances. Therefore, it constantly has to be on guard, especially during winter!
It is no secret that colder months are synonymous with an increase in colds, flu, respiratory infections and tissue purchases. But why is that? Simple answer, a compromised immune system.
As soon as the thermal reading on our thermometer starts to drop, it can wreak havoc on our defense system. Naturally, the exact reasons that affect our body’s ability to fight off infections vary. The top three culprits usually include our nasal anatomy, a vitamin deficiency/deficiencies, and lack of sleep.
This is because lower temperatures make it harder for our nasal passages to work properly. This happens as less blood flows to our nose, slowing down our mucus production, thus affecting our immune cells (and system). And with less sunlight making the rounds during the chilly season, your vitamin D levels experience a drastic decline too.
So let us have a quick look at what you can do to help give your body a boost in order to keep the flu, colds, and coughs at bay.
How To Strengthen Your Body's Defence System
Keep Your Nasal Canal Moist
We are all aware that indoor heating can seriously dry out the air in our homes and offices. In order to keep the inside of your nose moist, stay hydrated and do yourself a favour and invest in a humidifier. It can make all the difference in the world. Of course, wearing a scarf over your nose when heading outdoors can trap moisture and warmth “inside” preventing you from breathing in the cold dry air outside.
Vitamin D
Probably one of the most important nutrients your body needs to boost its natural defences. Vitamin D (colourfully known as the sunshine vitamin) helps regulate your immune system and boosts the pathogen-fighting power of your immune cells. Therefore, you need to make sure you are getting enough vitamin D to help your body fight off infections and support your overall health (and well-being). Vitamin D deficiency symptoms commonly include bone pain, muscle weakness and fatigue.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is without a doubt the vitamin most of us grab off the pharmacy shelves when we start to feel an oncoming itch in our throats (and with good reason). Vitamin C helps boost your immune system by encouraging the production of white blood cells and repairing tissues, making it easier for your body to fight infections. Getting a daily dose of vitamin C can also shorten the duration and intensity of common colds, making it a great go-to when you are feeling a bit under the weather. Vitamin C go-to foods include oranges, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Zinc
Another immune system sidekick your body cannot go without is zinc. Simply because this essential mineral is critical for your overall immune cell development. It also helps reduce inflammation and supports the healing process, making it essential for keeping your immune system strong and ready to respond. Wondering what food to add to your shopping list? Meat, fish, nuts, seeds, and eggs are typically high in zinc.
Probiotics
Modern research has taught us that your gut is key to keeping your immune system strong. That is why eating probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented veggies (e.g. German sauerkraut or Korean kimchi) goes a super long way in boosting your immune defence. Remember, a balanced gut microbiome not only strengthens your immunity but it also regulates inflammation, further enhancing your body's ability to fight off infections.
Sleep
Saying that sleep is important for your body would be the understatement of the century. Your body needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep to function at its best! This is because your body produces cytokines to target infections and inflammation while you sleep. It also creates T-cells, which are white blood cells that help fight infections. Sleep also allows your immune system to remember past invaders, making it easier to fight them off if they return and tackle them head-on.
A Super Easy Way To Fuel Your Immune System
At Healand, we believe in the power of our wellness boosters. It usually consists of IV drips (intravenous therapy) and vitamin D injections, as these methods deliver high concentrations of vitamins and minerals straight into your bloodstream, ensuring fast and efficient absorption. Plus, it is a super convenient and fast way to give your immune system the boost it needs, all while fitting seamlessly into even the busiest of schedules.
Our IV drips not only give your immune system the tools it needs to get through wintertime but they are also a great pick-me-up when you are feeling run down. They leave your body revitalised, energised and ready to take on anything that comes your way.
Conclusion And Next Steps
Your immune system matters. It defends your body against disease-causing microorganisms to keep you happy, healthy, surviving and thriving. Of course, ensuring your immune system is at its best is a 365 days-a-year kind of job.
So be sure to prioritise your well-being by getting enough rest, eating a well-balanced diet, and booking an appointment with us if you are interested in getting an immune system booster. After all, prevention is better than cure, vitamin D injection benefits are endless, and we can all agree that being sick is not only costly but it is no fun at all!
