8 Easy Steps to prevent the Cold & Flu

Why is it some of us get sick or a cold and others don’t? Is it by avoiding sick co-workers in your office, avoiding crowded public transport? We know you don’t just get sick just because you’re exposed to germs or viruses. The reality is these so called germs and viruses that cause these colds are ever present and literally everywhere 24/7, 365 days a year.

So how do we get sick? We get sick because at different times we are more immune to germs and viruses. To help our bodies adapt and resist these invaders, thus preventing us from getting sick - we need to have a strong immune system. 8 easy steps to boost your immune system:

• Get good quality sleep: A lack of sleep will weaken your immune system. That means putting away the laptops, Ipad, Iphones, as it affects melatonin production which helps calm the nervous system before sleep.

• Exercise: Research shows that people who exercise regularly at a moderate intensity, are about half as likely to catch a cold as those who do not, and even if they do catch a cold, their symptoms tend to be much less severe.

• Good Nutrition. A diet rich in antioxidants is one of the best ways to reduce damage in your body while optimising your immune system function. Ideally, try to include a wide range of vegetables and fruits in your diet.

• Cutting out Sugar (Fructose) and Grains. Most people don't realize that 80% of your immune system actually lies in your gastrointestinal tract. That's why controlling your sugar intake is crucial for improving your immune system.

• Wash your hands! Regular hand-washing will decrease your likelihood of spreading a virus to your nose, mouth or other people.

• Stress less. Ever notice how an argument with your significant other, a tough week at work or one too many late nights can bring on a cold or flu? Chronic stressors can effect your immune system.

• Supplements: Taking some supplements such as Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Zinc and Probiotics may help boost your immune system.

• A regular Chiropractic Adjustment: Keep your Nervous System super charged to ensure your Immune System is primed to deal with external stressors.

How does Chiropractic Help? Your nervous system and immune system are connected and coordinated to work together to give your body the opportunity to adapt to it's surrounding environment.

Spinal misalignment leads to a poorly co-ordination between your nervous system and immune system. Chiropractic adjustments help correct spinal misalignments these spinal misalignments, thus allowing your nervous system and immune system to work in their full capacity and fight off the germs and viruses in your environment.

Did you know...Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to boost the coordinated responses of the nervous system and immune system by 200%!

So, the take away message is - eat well, sleep well, exercise and get a regular Chiropractic Adjustment, and you'll breeze through the cold & flu season!

Stay well - Dr. Damian Lawgun

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