Winter is the prime time for cold and flu viruses. Every time you encounter someone else, you run the risk of exchanging germs. If your immune system isn’t strong, you could get sick or run down — and you don’t have time for that in your busy life! Luckily, there are ways you can strengthen your immune system to ward off illnesses.

1. Get More Sleep

You are less likely to catch a cold when you get enough sleep. Unfortunately, most Americans do not receive the recommended eight hours of shuteye each night. Sleeping too little can lead to small issues that compromise your immune system, such as increased inflammation and stress hormone production.

2. Incorporate Daily Exercise Into Your Routine

If you don’t exercise daily, you are missing out on an easy immune booster. Just walking every day for 30 minutes gets your heart pumping and improves your mood, which also helps your immune system. Plus, when you exercise, you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, which also contributes to a healthier immune system.

3. Make Time to Foster Friendships

Having good friends is more than a way to fill your social calendar. You also deliver a boost to the immune system when you have friends you can rely on. Studies show that people who feel isolated or lonely have less immunity against the flu and common colds.

4. Decrease Your Stress Levels

There are many reasons why you should try to reduce your stress levels. You will sleep better and most likely feel happier when you avoid stress. You also become less susceptible to illness. However, lightening your load requires an active effort, such as:

• Meditating every morning when you wake up
• Working on slowing down and appreciating the moment you are in
• Accepting help from other people when it makes sense
• Speaking to a counselor or therapist about serious life problems

5. Add More Vitamin C and Zinc to Your Diet

Vitamin C and zinc naturally boost your immune system, giving you more energy and a better chance of fighting off illness. Foods high in these vital vitamins and minerals include:

• Fruits and vegetables, including the most brightly colored varieties such as cantaloupe, oranges and broccoli
• Eggs
• Nuts and seeds

You can get more vitamins and minerals without changing your diet, too, by getting an in-home IV. Request a Myers’ Cocktail, which includes vitamins C and B, as well as zinc to help boost your immune system.

6. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can compromise your immune system. When you don’t have enough fluid in your body, it reduces your lymphatic fluids and blood, which keep the immune system working. Stay hydrated daily by drinking water and consider IV hydration for an extra boost.

IV for Flu and Colds

Many people get an IV for treating cold and flu symptoms, but you can also use an in-home IV to avoid dehydration after a big sports event, to get over a hangover or battle a bout of fatigue. Contact us today or call or text us at 623-521-5034 to learn more.