As temperatures start to plummet, we all tend to spend a bit more time indoors. While it makes sense to remain in areas that keep us warm, it is also true that as we move inside, we move in closer proximity to others and that our chance for developing a bacterial or viral infection dramatically increases.

This is one reason – actually the main reason – that flu season corresponds with the months where cooler temperatures abound. The good news is, there are several general wellness techniques that can assist in building a superior immune system and all of them relate to your nutrition levels. Continue reading to learn more.

How Does Nutrition Increase Immune Function?

The immune system is similar to a type of body armor. It works to protect you from a wide variety of illnesses, infections, and diseases. By eating the right types of foods, taking the proper nutrients, and engaging in physical activity, you are consistently strengthening your immune system.

Numerous studies have concluded that our general susceptibility to becoming infected with an illness is lowered significantly when we place an emphasis on taking steps that will boost our nutritional levels.

Healthy foods, ingredients, minerals, vitamins, and similar substances are necessary for the development and healthy functioning of immune cells. Additionally, several foods have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and probiotic properties that also provide a boost to the immune system.

The Necessities

The following outlines a few necessities that will play a role in ensuring optimal immune function – especially during the midst of the current COVID-19 pandemic, flu and cold season, and the common allergies that occur at this time of year:

1. Vitamin D – In the past, it was believed that Vitamin D was only essential in ensuring bone health; however, recent scientific conclusions have established that it is also a necessary component for immune health.
2. Trace Elements and Minerals – These include zinc, selenium, iron, and similar substances. Foods that contain these include whole grains, seeds, legumes, and vegetables that are green and leafy. All of these substances will provide an instantaneous boost to your immune system.
3. Fiber – Once believed to be beneficial in only promoting digestive health, it has now been found that fiber is digested by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. In turn, these create by-products that have a positive effect on immune function.
4. Micronutrients – These include the Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, as well as folate, copper, selenium, zinc, and iron. Each of these are known to play a highly synergistic role in the development of the immune response and general functionality.
5. Regular Exercise – By engaging in regular exercise, you are not only strengthening the body, but you are strengthening the immune response. Furthermore, the physical activity will benefit the functionality of all organs and will optimize the general wellness of the body.

Final Thoughts

We have all heard the expression that goes along with the fact that the body is like a machine. Every machine requires maintenance for proper functionality and the body is no different. General wellness should be a priority among us all.

In placing an emphasis on nutrition and supplementing that nutrition with physical activity, we will develop superior immune function. In a world reaching staggering COVID-19 statistics and the arrival of flu season, it has never been more important to build up our immune function.

We can help with this endeavor. To learn more, contact us today by calling: 706-738-7731