Avoid the Cold and Flu This Season

Think of your body’s immune system as an army whose entire purpose is to keep you healthy and strong. It is a defense shield against the onslaught of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and allergens that surround us everywhere we go… including the cold and flu viruses that make the rounds this time each year.

What if you could dramatically reduce your chances of catching a virus?

Each year thousands of people miss multiple days of work or school due to virus-borne illness – most of which could be very easily avoided with proper prevention.

Here are some quick tips to keep your inner army fighting strong:

• Get quality sleep! A rested body is a healthy body. 7-9 hours of darkness is ideal for producing the melatonin our bodies need to heal and stay strong.

• Learn to manage stress. Combat stress and its effects with simple management techniques.

• Eat a wholesome, balanced diet. Fresh, unprocessed food gives your body the fuel it needs to fight.

• Drink enough water. Staying well hydrated helps flush out unwanted invaders.

• Do deep breathing. This practice not only influences vital lung functions, but Harvard research shows it stimulates immune responses against invading viruses.

• Get regular exercise. Increased circulation and sweating enhances the immune system.

• Wash your hands! It’s an easy way to stop germs in their tracks.

• Supplement your diet with recommended nutrients and herbs to boost your immune function.

• Get sunshine. Sun is hard to access in Canadian winter, but UV sun lamps can help with Vitamin D3 production. Use according to manufacturer’s instructions.

• Consider an Immune Boost shot or Immune Max I.V. Oral or injectable options are scientifically and clinically proven to prevent and treat flus and colds without any side effects.

Now is the time to give your immune system a good armour. Help your army fight off any potential invaders and win the cold and flu war!

Dr. Sarah Sjovold is a Naturopathic Doctor practising at Livstil Wellness Clinic.  She regularly sees patients in the Langley and Surrey area looking for help with digestion, detoxing. and immune support.