How I Boost My Immune System

When the school year starts and the cooler months arrive, I try to find some ways to strengthen my health and push through the cold and flu season.  There are a lot of things that I do to work on boosting my immune system. I always try to live a healthy lifestyle, but I ramp up my health routine when I feel like I am exposed to germs, feeling run down, or just during cold and flu season.

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Vitamins

I take vitamins on a regular basis, but during cold and flu season, I try to make sure that I am taking them daily.

I usually at least take a daily multivitamin, but I also supplement with some other basics, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and iron when needed. During particularly stressful periods, you can also consider getting a Myers cocktail IV treatment. This infusion therapy includes a potent mix of vitamins and minerals administered intravenously, which can boost immune function and overall energy levels.

Herbal supplements

I like to take some extra herbal supplements during cold and flu season.  Some of these include elderberry, echinacea, and turmeric.  I also like to make my own elderberry syrup (read my post on how to make elderberry syrup).

Gut health

Gut health is a huge part of supporting your immune system.  There are many things you can do to support your gut health, including taking probiotics. You can also eat foods that are good sources of probiotics, such as yogurt or fermented foods.  You can also try your hand at making some of these foods, such as using a yogurt maker or buying a scoby kombucha starter and making your own kombucha.

Healthy foods & superfoods

Focus on healthy eating, especially with so many treats and temptations during the holidays. Try to eat healthy foods, fresh fruits and veggies.  Another good thing to add into your routine is superfoods, such as chia seeds, goji berries, spirulina, and turmeric.  Some of these come in whole food form, while others, such as turmeric, can be added to dishes.  For example, turmeric can be used in rice, soups, or smoothies.

Hydrate

Good hydration is good for overall health. I try to drink as much water as possible, and I try to stay away from sugary drinks.  If I drink other beverages, I try to stick with things like green tea, nutritional shakes, etc.

Exercise

Getting fresh air and exercise is always a good idea. The winter months can be cold and tougher to get outside to get exercise, but it is important to get moving.  Even if you can bundle up and take a walk, it helps contribute towards your health.

Get enough sleep

Sleep is so important! I try to make sure I get enough sleep, even if it is at least one good sleep-in on the weekend.

Healthy hygiene

Stay on top of things like hand washing and using hand sanitizer.  I am very careful about washing my hands when I get home, or sanitizing my hands after going to the grocery store since I have touched things like shopping carts and credit card machines.

Healthy home & workplace

Consider what goes into a healthy home and workplace during cold and flu season. For example, I do a lot of disinfecting and cleaning surfaces that get a lot of traffic. I like to cut down on germy surfaces, but also use chemical-free cleaning supplies.  I also run air purifiers and regularly air out my home and office with fresh air.

Essential oils

*Note – be careful using any essential oils around pets.

There are studies that show that essential oils may be helpful during cold and flu season, from helping with sleep or respiratory issues. Thieves oil is a popular blend for cold and flu season, and helps with germs, respiratory issues, and boosting the immune system.