Tune-up Your Immune System's Health This Holiday

by Dr. Keri Chiappino, DC DACNB BCN
New Life Wellness Center, Smithtown, NY

The holidays are here! Are you prepared?!!

First and foremost, getting proper rest is key to keeping your body strong for the demands of the season. Studies show that those who get poor sleep are more prone to falling sick when exposed to viruses like colds or the flu and are slower to recover. The more sleep loss, the higher the level of C-reactive proteins (CRP) in the blood, an indicator of inflammation in the body. In terms of heart health, this can mean a higher risk of heart attack. Aim for 9 hours per night. Sleeping a problem? Avoid sleeping pills and other sleep aids that only exacerbate the issue. Acupuncture and neurofeedback training are two effective therapies to help you achieve deep, restorative sleep.

2. Watch your sugar and alcohol intake! It's tough to resist those tempting holiday goodies, but keep in mind that both can not only add on unwanted pounds, but can also take a toll on your immune system, impairing the ability of the body's white blood cells to kill off harmful germs. Incorporate bacteria-fighting yogurt into your diet as well as fruits and vegetables including berries, citrus fruits, kale, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots which are rich in nutrients like immune-boosting vitamins C and E, as well as beta-carotene and zinc.

3. Make Water Your BFF! Shopping, exercising, burning the occasional midnight oil? Keep energy and hydration levels primed by slipping a bottle or two of water into your bag. Water helps naturally eliminate toxins and other bacteria that may cause sickness, and can boost energy levels, mood, and brain performance and help you power through the demands of the holiday. (Another shopping tip: pack a healthy snack, such as trail mix or organic multigrain bars to keep blood sugar levels from dropping and sapping you of much needed energy!)

4. Practice Hand Hygiene! Doorknobs, switches and even hugs and handshakes can be harbingers of nasty germs that can sideline your holiday. Frequent hand washing with soap and water is the best way to ward off germs, but if you are on the go, hand sanitizers are the next best bet. (Tip: Thieves waterless hand sanitizer provides non-chemical cleaning power with a pleasant natural peppermint scent!).

5. Add Supplements to Your Daily Routine. Give your body some extra support with supplements that can help boost your immune system if the hectic holidays are sabotaging your best efforts to follow a healthy lifestyle. Choose high quality supplements like the nutraMetrix line; its Isotonix Immune is designed to support the body's innate immune cells, promoting the natural immune response, and helping you stay vital and energetic.)

Keep the season merry and bright by keeping your body healthy and strong! Schedule a visit! Call 631.265.1223.