Support your immune system this winter

8th Jun, 2023

As winter approaches, it’s important to look after your immune system, as you can be more susceptible to colds and flu in cooler temperatures. The good news? There are simple ways to boost your immune system and prevent illness.

Eat a rainbow

Nourishing your immune system requires a varied diet filled with nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats (1).

Boost your immunity by incorporating citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, garlic, ginger, and turmeric, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for healthy immune function (2).

Love your guts

Taking care of your gut is crucial for a strong immune system. Consuming probiotics in supplements or foods like sauerkraut and kefir, along with prebiotic foods such as asparagus, onions and leeks can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, boost immunity, and protect against harmful pathogens (3,4).

Sip bone broth

Bone broth is rich in minerals and amino acids that enhance immune function and reduce inflammation. The gelatin and collagen in bone broth support a healthy gut lining, which plays a crucial role in immune system regulation (5).

Check your protein

Protein plays a vital role in the production of antibodies, enzymes, and immune cells that are critical for immune system regulation and function (6).

To strengthen your immune function, ensure an adequate intake of protein through sources like meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds, or add a protein shake into your daily routine.

Herbal immune boosters

Harness the power of immune-boosting herbs such as astragalus, andrographis, turmeric, echinacea, olive leaf, elderberry, thyme, green tea, St John’s wort, licorice, and holy basil.

These herbs possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-balancing properties that boost the production and activity of immune cells, strengthening your body’s defence against pathogens (7,8,9).

Medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, shiitake, maitake, turkey tail and cordyceps, can also enhance immunity by increasing immune cell activity and reducing inflammation (10,11).

Sweeten your defence

Manuka honey has immune-enhancing properties not found in regular honey. It is highly valued for its antibacterial properties, attributed to a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO) (12,13). Choose a higher MGO rating, which indicates superior quality and antibacterial strength.

Supplement wisely

Essential nutrients that contribute to the proper functioning of your immune system include vitamin A, C, D and E, zinc, selenium, iron, B vitamins, glutathione, and quercetin.

These nutrients support the production and activity of white blood cells and help regulate inflammation and oxidative stress to help fight off infections (14,15,16,17,18,19,20).

Sunshine for a vitamin D boost

Sunlight exposure optimises vitamin D levels, which enhances the immune response by boosting the production and activity of immune cells that combat pathogens and reduce inflammation (15,21).

Sweat it out

Exercise enhances immune function by improving the circulation of immune cells, increasing antibody production, reducing chronic inflammation, and removing bacteria and waste through sweat and via the lungs (22).

To reap these benefits, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Green therapy

Spending time in bushland or other green spaces, often referred to as forest bathing, reduces stress, improves immune function, and boosts mood and mental well-being (23,24).

Relax and release

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, increasing your susceptibility to infections (25). Find activities that help you relax and unwind, such as reading, listening to music, meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.

Reach out

Positive experiences of social connection have been linked to various health benefits, including improved recovery from illness, better sleep, reduced stress levels and fewer coughs and colds (26,27).

Hydrate

Proper hydration is often overlooked but is vital for optimal immune function.

Adequate water intake supports nutrient transport and toxin elimination, and maintains the health of mucous membranes which act as a protective barrier against pathogens.

Herbal teas, broths, and warm lemon water can provide hydration along with additional immune-supporting benefits.

Recharge for resilience

Adequate sleep is crucial for a strong immune system (28). During sleep, your body repairs and regenerates, optimising the efficiency of your immune system. To improve sleep quality, have a wind-down routine, avoid keeping electronic devices in your bedroom and keep a regular sleep schedule.

Practice good hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene practices is vital for reducing the risk of infections (29). Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after being in public spaces.

Key take-aways

Supporting your immune system during winter is crucial for staying healthy and resilient. A holistic approach that incorporates proper nutrition, hydration, sleep, stress management, exercise and immune-boosting herbs will strengthen your body's defences, allowing you to navigate winter with vitality.

Disclaimer:

Please contact your health professional for the prescription of herbal and nutritional remedies. Application of clinical judgement is necessary. Treatment recommendations should not replace medical treatment.

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