Winter provides you and your loved ones with the perfect time to enjoy homemade hot chocolate, build a snowman, have a bonfire, go ice skating, and do all the other fun activities that come with this time of the year. But as temperatures drop, sicknesses often sneak up and leave you in bed, unable to enjoy the festivities. 

This is the dreaded season of the year when coughs and colds are at a high. Colder weather makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to spread. In addition, your immune cells aren’t at their best, reducing your ability to combat infection and control chronic inflammation in your body. 

With sickness running rampant all around you, prioritize learning how to boost your immune system naturally by following the wellness tips below for staying fit and healthy during winter:

 

• Maintain a healthy diet

 

The best way to keep your immune system in check is to avoid foods rich in carbohydrates and opt for their nutritious alternatives. Some foods you should consider adding to your diet are garlic, ginger, citrus fruits, berries, red grapes, almonds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, and turmeric. These contain immune-boosting minerals and vitamins and essential nutrients that reduce inflammation and increase antioxidant levels in your body.

In addition, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking filtered water and warm herbal teas. This way, you can prevent infections, regulate your body temperature, and boost the functionality of your immune cells and deliver nutrients to them.

 

• Exercise regularly

 

Regular exercise is important to keeping your body in tip-top shape, but it’s more crucial during winter. Staying physically active in cold weather improves your blood circulation and stimulates your lymphatic system. As a result, your immune cells and antibodies can detect and get rid of harmful bacteria and viruses since they can circulate more efficiently around your body.

If you plan to shed excess weight during winter, consider seeking help from our Intentional health coach. We offer a 12-week weight loss program that aims to help you lose up to two pounds a week. Instead of promoting unhealthy crash diets, we will focus on dealing with Detox, Direction, and Drive to help you maintain your motivation and keep the weight off.

 

• Take supplements

 

Supplements provide you with the vitamins and minerals your body needs to maintain optimal health. This winter, consider taking Vitamin C to fight off infection by stimulating your immune system and improving the production of antibodies and white blood cells. In addition, Vitamin D primes your immune cells and gets rid of viruses and bacteria and protects you from illnesses and autoimmune conditions. 

Take zinc to promote healing in your body and protect your cells. This mineral’s antioxidant and antiviral properties help you produce more immune cells. Vitamin A, on the other hand, keeps you safe from future infection and helps your body produce antibodies. It prevents bacteria and viruses from entering by supporting the mucous membranes of your respiratory tract.

Conclusion

During winter, illnesses are common, and you are more likely to be surrounded by people who seem to be sniffling and spluttering every once in a while. To stay fit and healthy this time of the year, boost your immune system by exercising regularly and knowing which foods and supplements you need to consume. This way, you can be motivated and energized despite the cold days.

Boost your overall health by working with our holistic health coach. We offer various fitness programs, personalized coaching, and more. Schedule a free delivery call today!