How to Protect Your Immune System as the Weather Gets Colder

Posted October 4, 2017

Fall is upon us—that means we’ll soon be engulfed in colorful leaves, Halloween candy, breezy temperatures…and the common cold!

So, why is it that we tend to get sick when the seasons change? Most people think that it’s a result of our bodies being unaccustomed to the dramatic change in temperature. However, it’s actually due to the shift in viruses present. Colder temperatures feed different groups of viruses, which means new germs (that our bodies aren’t prepared for) come alive during the fall and winter [1]. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to combat these pesky seasonal viruses.

[1] https://www.livescience.com/54663-why-we-get-sick-when-season-changes.html

Simple Steps to Fend Off Seasonal Illnesses

  1. Exercise. There are countless reasons to exercise, and boosting your immune system is just one of them. Regardless of the activity, physical exercise helps flush bacteria out of your airways, which can help prevent the cold and flu. Breaking a sweat can also help your white blood cells (which are your body’s immunity cells) circulate faster. So, get moving! [2]

  2. Boost Your Zinc Intake. Yes, Vitamin C is a key player in boosting your immunity, but did you know that zinc can do the same? It stops the replication of the common cold’s cells, which will help keep you healthy. Zinc can be found in spinach, nuts, beans, oysters, and more [1].

  3. Get Enough Sleep. Some underestimate the power of sleep! It helps your body recoup in a variety of ways. Without enough sleep, your immune system’s antibodies that help fight infection are reduced, which in turn makes you prone to illness. Plus, who doesn’t love sleep? Make it a priority to get a good night’s rest! [3]

  4. Ditch Processed Foods. This is an important one. Did you know that gluten, sugar, and processed foods can dramatically decrease your immune system’s ability? Swap them out for whole foods rich in antioxidants and key nutrients, such as spinach, berries, sweet potatoes, salmon, and chia seeds. A quick (and delicious) way to fit in lots of micronutrients at once is by making a smoothie—throw in some fruit, spinach, milk, and ice…and blend! [1]

  5. Use Lavender Oil for a Hand Sanitizer. It might sound odd, but it beats the average household hand sanitizer. Typical sanitizers are harsh, create resistant bacteria, and can dry out your skin. Lavender oil is a natural way to moisturize your hands and fight off bacteria [1].

  6. Drink Plenty of Water. Drinking lots of water is great for your health in general, but also comes in handy before cold/flu season. Staying hydrated helps produce lymph, which assists the flow of white blood cells. Drink up! [4]

  7. Relax! Have you ever had an enormously stressful week, and ended up getting sick in the midst of it? What’s worse?! Well, it isn’t just a coincidence—there’s actually a reason behind this. High stress can significantly weaken your immune system. Be easy on yourself, and find some time to relax! [4]

[1] https://www.livescience.com/54663-why-we-get-sick-when-season-changes.html

[2] https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007165.htm

[3] http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/lack-of-sleep/faq-20057757

[4] https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-11433/winter-is-coming-10-ways-to-strengthen-your-immune-system-now.html

Let Us Join Your Support System

Another key step in staying healthy is staying on top of your medication regimen. We care about your health, and we want to be a part of your support system.

This is why MedaCheck’s app, Habit, sends off an alert when it’s time to take your medication, along with a photo of the drug, the name of the medication, and any specific instructions to take the medication properly—because it’s not just about taking your medication on time, it’s about doing it the right way. Want to learn more about MedaCheck’s easy-to-use medication reminder system? If you’re a hospital, care center, healthcare organization or home care provider, employer or individual, visit www.medacheck.com.