During the winter months our immune system seems to take a hit. And this winter, with Covid-19 being a huge concern, guarding against colds and boosting the immune system is more important than ever. What can you do? Below, find five easy things to improve your immune function.
1. Have a Spa Day
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles have found that people who get massages experience higher levels of lymphocytes which defend the body from disease. As the American Psychological Association points out, this could be due to decreasing stress levels which helps you stay healthy and boost your immunity. While you may not be able to go out and get a massage right now due to social distancing, consider putting together a spa day at home with your partner or friend. Give yourself facials, try an aromatherapy foot massager, or consider some of these spa gadgets.
2. Do What Makes You Happy
While this may seem too easy, doing things you love may actually boost your immune system. A recent study from The Pennsylvania State University showed that being in a negative mood increases inflammation in the body. High levels of inflammation are associated with increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. On the other hand, patients with a positive mood had lower inflammation levels. In addition, research has shown that increased serotonin, the hormone in the body that is released when you are happy, has a direct effect on creating immune fighting cells in the body. While it may be hard to always stay positive during these uncertain times, prioritize time in your day to do the things you love, whether that be taking your dog for a walk or binging a new show on Netflix.
3. Supplement with Elderberry
Antioxidant-rich Elderberry is a great way to boost your immune system to help fight off colds, reduce cold symptoms, and shorten duration of time you are sick. According to an Australian studyassessing air travelers, people who used elderberry from ten days prior to traveling until five days after arriving overseas, on average experienced a two-day shorter duration of the common cold and a reduction in cold symptoms. B GREAT Immune Boosting Gummies are infused with Elderberry, Vitamin C, and Zinc to help you boost your immunity and destress at the same time.
4. Focus on Gut Health
Keeping your gut healthy is one of the most important things you can do to fend off disease this winter. In your gut live 100 trillion forms of bacteria, both good and bad, which may have a significant effect on preventing or treating some diseases according to Harvard Medical School research. To increase the “good” bacteria in your gut and ensure your gut is healthy, eat foods high in probiotics such as yogurt, buttermilk, pickles, and kombucha. In addition, you could consider taking probiotic supplements after speaking with a doctor.
5. Exercise Regularly
During the pandemic, it may be harder to find the motivation to exercise, but this may be the best way to boost your immune system. Harvard Health researchers say exercise can contribute to a healthy lifestyle which in turn creates a healthier immune system. In addition, exercise may directly affect the immune system through increased circulation, which allows disease-fighting bacteria to move throughout the body freely to fight off any potential infections. Now is the time to up your exercise routine and try a low intensity workout like yoga, walking, or cycling.
"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."