NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With the arrival of autumn comes sweater weather and spooky season. As many are excited to get bundled up, attend football games and hit the pumpkin patch, it’s important to remember that these fun fall activities are accompanied by the start of cold and flu season. Internal Medicine Physician and Self-Proclaimed Burnout Warrior, Dr. Akua Ampadu, offers her tips to boost the immune system to help prevent sickness as the weather cools down outside.
“As we are coming off warmer weather and continuing to enjoy outdoor activities while we still can, it may slip our mind to prepare for cold and flu season,” says Dr. Ampadu. “We can implement a few simple steps to support our immune systems this fall so we are ready for the colder weather and still able to participate in fall festivities.”
Dr. Ampadu recommends the following tips:
1. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines- Vaccines help prepare the body, should there be exposure to infection-causing organisms. Vaccines help maintain immune strength by training the body to recognize and fight these germs. Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines and talk to your doctor about other vaccines which may be of benefit to you.
2. Stay Active- The colder months may make us want to curl up on the sofa with hot cocoa and the remote but it’s important to still get some physical activity. A minimum of thirty minutes of exercise can improve circulation, help reduce the risk of immune system changing diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes and improve sleep which in turn helps with cells repair and improves the immune system.
3. Keep the Immune System Boosted- Runny noses, colds and other upper respiratory illnesses are quite common in the colder months. Eating a balanced diet filled with healthy grains, fruits and vegetables should provide your body with the vitamins and minerals needed to fight infection. You can also consider taking supplement support like Zicam Daily Immune Support with Zinc, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D.
4. Get Adequate Sleep- The change in time along with shorter days and longer nights can sometimes throw your sleep cycle off. Sleep is essential to immunity and your body's cells repair themselves when you are asleep. If you find it difficult falling and/or staying asleep consider a melatonin supplement to improve your circadian rhythm. Zicam Sleep + Immune Support is a great option as it not only has melatonin but also Vitamins C, D and Zinc which all help with immune repair and support.
5. Wash Your Hands- Germs love the hands and it is imperative that you aim to keep them as clean as possible. Wash hands frequently, after using the bathroom, before eating, when you come home and whenever they are soiled. Remember to lather your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. If soap is not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be used.