These days, a healthy immune system is more important than ever. We see flu and illness spikes during the fall and winter because our bodies are not adapting properly to the changes in temperature, decrease in vitamin D, and the increased time spent indoors. The only way to decrease your chances of getting sick is to make sure your immune system is functioning properly.

Here are some tips to help improve your immune system function naturally:

Eat whole, healthy foods and drink lots of water

It’s no secret processed foods are bad for us. They are full of additives, pesticides and preservatives, which weaken the body’s ability to fend off illness and disease. Throw away or donate processed items. When at the store, shop the outside aisles that have fruits, veggies and proteins. Also be sure to stay hydrated. Without proper hydration, our bodies have a tough time flushing away immune system-damaging toxins.

Avoid extra sugar

Sugar increases inflammation which increases your chance of getting sick. A study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that eating 100 grams of sugar—roughly the amount in a regular soft drink or sweetened yogurt—significantly reduced the immune system’s ability to kill bacteria for up to five hours. Pay close attention to everywhere sugar lurks and find ways to reduce your intake.

Not getting any sun?

Consider a Vitamin D supplement or get outside for 10-30 minutes a day. Vitamin D is essential for bone health as well as muscle and nerve functions. Vitamin D also helps the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses.

Get adequate sleep

Your body to heal and detoxes while you sleep, preparing it and your immune system for the next day. A 2009 Carnegie Mellon study showed people who sleep fewer than seven hours a night are nearly three times more likely to get a cold than those who average eight or more hours of sleep.

Stay active

Exercise increases endorphins and sweating is good for you. In fact, there is evidence that regular physical activity contributes to a more effective immune response, providing enhanced immunity to infection and sickness. According to Dr. Armeen Poor, an attending physician in pulmonary critical care medicine at Metropolitan Hospital Center in New York City, “regular exercise has a wide array of benefits that can be protective in countless ways, including but not limited to neurologic, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive and psychiatric wellness.”

See a chiropractor for regular visits

Last, and most importantly, GET ADJUSTED! Regular chiropractic adjustments ensure your nervous and immune systems are functioning optimally.

Schedule an appointment with us today and let us help you boost your immunity naturally! Our award-winning Overland Park chiropractic office provides excellent care and efficient service to help you get the results you need.