Special thank you to our resident volunteer Health Coach for this article.

This coming winter and flu season is expected to be a difficult time as we emerge from COVID related lockdowns and isolation. With more people circulating in the community this year than over the last two years, it is important to be mindful of what we can do to help our immune systems over the coming months.

I’ve complied some great tips that may help give your immune system a boost:  

1. Get your flu shot – this may mitigate the instances of serious illness resulting from the flu virus.
2. Eat whole foods – (not processed ones) that are full of vitamins and nutrients. Focus on foods with high levels of protein (seafood, lean meat, poultry, eggs, beans and peas). Foods that are also rich in Vitamin A (sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli and spinach), Vitamin C (citrus foods, strawberries and certain cereals), Vitamin E (almonds, hazelnuts and peanut butter), and Zinc (lean meats, poultry, whole grain products and beans) are also great immunity building foods.  
3. Drink plenty of good clean water – water helps your body by helping to transport oxygen and nutrients to your organs and muscles. It also helps to flush the toxins and waste out of your body.  
4. Move your body – gentle movement including yoga, seated dance and walking does wonders for reducing your overall stress levels, increasing your cardiovascular health and strengthening your immune system.  
5. Sleep and rest well – by eating better and exercising, this should help to improve your sleeping habits. Good sleep and rest are fundamental to good immune function reducing underlying inflammation and allowing the body to recover and repair.  

You don’t have to change everything straight away as a rapid change like this will make sticking to these tips impossible. Instead, just try to add a little more fruit in your day with some more whole foods in your daily diet. Then add a little movement to your schedule. Then focus on your water intake. One step at a time is what will help you make positive and lasting changes.  

Stay healthy, stay safe.

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