As we head into cold and flu (and covid) season, you are probably wondering about different ways to protect yourself from common viruses. We all know that regularly washing our hands, refraining from touching our faces, and avoiding crowded places can reduce our odds of encountering a virus. But what about your body’s response?

Viruses are just a part of life, and coming into contact with one is probably inevitable. How your body responds to infection, and more specifically how your immune system responds to infection, will play a powerful role in whether you get sick and how bad your symptoms will be.

So, can you do things to support your immune system? Absolutely! Keep in mind, of course, that everyone responds different to diet and lifestyle measures. And if you have a pre-existing condition that makes common illnesses more dangerous for you, you should take more precautions than the average person. But taking steps to support your immune system and overall health is never a bad idea for anyone.

With regard to diet, you want to focus on foods that contain important vitamins, like vitamins A, C, D, and E. Certain minerals like zinc are important, too. Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants help to reduce inflammation in the body. The following fifteen foods are good examples of healthy options you should include in your diet regularly:

• Broccoli
• Citrus fruits
• Berries
• Leafy greens
• Sweet potatoes
• Beans and legumes
• Whole grains
• Oats
• Lean meats
• Fatty fish
• Greek yogurt
• Eggs
• Pumpkin seeds
• Ginger
• Honey

In addition to a healthy diet, make sure you’re getting plenty of quality sleep to support your immune system. Time outdoors is important too, because exposure to sunlight will prompt your body to make vitamin D. Avoid stress, which can put strain on your entire body (including your immune system) and remember to limit sugar and white flour.

And luckily, these foods all support a healthy weight loss plan, too! For more information on that, call our office to schedule a consultation.