Flu activity is currently high in the United States and expected to continue for weeks. Fortunately, you can prepare your body to handle sickness more effectively. Here are a few simple ways you can prepare your immune system to fight the flu.
Eat Healthy, Nutrient-Dense Foods
You may not have control over whether or not you’re exposed to the flu virus, but you do have control over what you eat. Healthy, nutrient-dense foods should compose a major portion of each meal. In particular, look for foods that are rich in the following nutrients:
- Vitamin A (eggs, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, fortified breakfast cereals)
- Selenium (Brazil nuts, eggs, brown rice, sunflower seeds)
- Vitamin C (cauliflower, broccoli, strawberries, sweet potato)
- Vitamin B2 (mushrooms, beef, milk, spinach, pork)
- Vitamin D (beef liver, fatty fish, cheese, fortified dairy products)
- Vitamin B6 (fish, pork, wholegrain cereals, poultry)
- Zinc (nuts, meat, seeds, eggs, dairy)
- Vitamin E (peanuts, avocados, sunflower seeds, spinach)
As long as your diet includes plenty of vegetables and fruits of different colors, you’re probably getting the major nutrients your immune system requires. If you feel like you’re not getting enough nutrients, you may want to take advantage of Newport Medical and Wellness Center’s healthy meal replacement program.
Drink More Water
Your body needs plenty of water to flush toxins out of vital organs. All cells in your body, including your immune cells, require water to function. If you’re already chronically dehydrated, you can deliver water to your body very quickly with vitamin IV hydration therapies from Newport Medical and Wellness Center.
Exercise Daily
Did you know your immune system is strengthened by regular exercise? While the science and medical communities do not yet understand exactly how exercise helps the immune system, there are several theories. The most popular theory suggests that physical activity may clear bacteria out of the airways and lungs. This, in turn, may help you fight off the flu and common cold. It’s also thought that exercise can help white blood cells circulate through the blood more rapidly and thus detect illnesses earlier than they would otherwise.
Take Supplements
If you don’t get enough nutrients in your regular diet, it’s wise to supplement with nutrients that boost the immune system. Vitamin D, selenium and zinc may be especially helpful at fighting off the flu and other illnesses, according to studies. Remember to always take supplements as directed so you don’t flood your body with more nutrients than it can handle.
Get Enough Sleep
Many people underestimate the importance of sufficient sleep. While it’s possible to get by on 6 hours or less of sleep per night, your immune system will eventually suffer. Studies reveal that people who don’t get enough sleep on a regular basis are more likely to get colds and flus than people who get enough quality sleep.
Your immune system is incredible. Treat it well and prepare it to fight off the flu by following these helpful guidelines year-round.
