Enhance Immunity this Flu Season with these 5 Tips

Flu season is nearly upon us as influenza activity generally increases between October and December, with peaks during January and March. The best way to prepare yourself is with nutrient-dense foods all year long!

Vitamin E has broad effects on immunity with its most notable role as an antioxidant. It works to combat the free radicals in your body that lead to cell damage and illness. It can be found in foods like vegetable oils, leafy greens, whole grains, and nuts. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits as well as tomatoes and broccoli. Besides protecting your cells from damage, Vitamin C also helps heal wounds and shorten the length of symptoms if you already have them. Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein, are also well-known antioxidants. You can find carotenoids in your red and orange vegetables such as tomatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, as well as some dark-leafy green vegetables.

Besides consuming a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet, here are 5 ways to help protect yourself against the coming Winter’s ailments.

· Sleep as much as you need to – adults typically need 7-9 hours of sleep, but yes, there are those who need 10!

· Be active – research shows that regular physical activity helps move disease-fighting white blood cells from the organs into the bloodstream, to ward off invading pathogens.

· Get a flu shot – schedule a flu shot if your doctor recommends it, especially if you have other risk factors such as a pregnancy or chronic illness such as asthma, heart disease, HIV, or those on chronic steroids, because your immune system could be compromised.

· Try a multivitamin if you aren’t getting enough of those immunity-boosting nutrients – while it is recommended that nutrient requirements be met primarily through food, your doctor or RD can determine whether a multivitamin would benefit you. Be aware that high doses of these nutrients won’t increase immunity any more than regular doses.

· Good Hygiene – wash your hands regularly, clean frequently used surfaces such as door handles and keyboards, and avoid contact with those who are presenting symptoms.