During winter, when the temperature drops and the days get shorter, illnesses are rife. This is because we spend more time indoors within close contact with other people, and some research has suggested that cold weather constricts the blood vessels in our nose that may prevent white blood cells from reaching our mucus membranes and killing any viruses that we inhale.
Additionally, experts are warning that now social distancing is over and mask wearing isn’t compulsory, we’re going to see a rise in things like cold and flu strains.
Here’s how you can protect yourself and boost your immune system this winter.
Try and get consistently good sleep
Sleep is a key part of maintaining a healthy and strong immune system. One of the reasons is that whilst we sleep, our bodies produce and release proteins called cytokines that target infection and inflammation which help us fight off things like colds and flu. Consistent quality sleep also boosts the efficacy of vaccinations so if you’re getting a COVID-19 booster or a seasonal flu jab, it will work better if you sleep well.
Fill up on fruit and vegetables
It’s worth noting that there are no single foods or specific diets that will ‘boost’ your immunity and in the UK there are no foods or drinks that are allowed to make claims that they protect against infection. However, the nutrients that keep our immune system working well include vitamins A, B6, B12, C and D as well as copper, folate, iron, selenium and zinc. So eating a well-balanced and healthy diet filled with fruit and vegetables can ensure we’re getting enough nutrients and minerals to bolster our immune system.
Additionally, early stage research has also linked a strong immune system to a healthy gut microbiome. The best way to achieve this is to have a wide variety of high-fibre plant-based foods like fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils.
Manage your stress levels
Stress reduces the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens because the stress hormone corticosteroid lowers the number of lymphocytes the body produces which suppresses the effectiveness of the immune system. This is why when we’re stressed, we’re more susceptible to infections. By trying to reduce stress, or at least manage stress levels, you can help your immune system out. Things like meditation, breathing exercise and regular exercise are all great ways of managing stress.
Get an immune boosting IV
Our revitalised NAD+ immunity package is the perfect immune booster IV therapy to strengthen your immune system as we head into the winter months.
This immunity package includes 4 separate signature NAD+ Infusions delivered weekly or as instructed by the medical team. As well as containing NAD+, we’ve filled this specific infusion with high dose vitamins including Vitamin C, Vitamin D and all your essential B-vitamins; as well as a complete package of amino acids and minerals support, including Lysine, Taurine and Folic Acid.
To top it off we’ve packed this NAD+ infusion with the ultimate antioxidant – glutathione to really boost your immune system.
Find out more about our revitalised NAD+ immunity package or book today.