Viral infections are on the rise – and we’re not talking about covid!

- 6 ways to keep yourself healthy

Having myself been off with a viral infection this last week I can attest to the news paper headlines claiming that there is an increase in other forms of viruses excluding covid. These include the common cold, stomach bugs and the flu.

After 18 months of relatively low levels of these other (non-covid) viral infections, they are now back with all their not so lovely symptoms. The reasons have been linked to less mask wearing, return of schools and universities and generally more mixing in public.

So now that they are back here is how to keep your immune systems in tip top condition:

1) Sleep

- Studies have shown that people who don’t get enough quality sleep are more prone to getting sick after exposure to viruses. Aim for at least 7 hours a night.

2) Healthy diet

- A healthy diet is a key component of a healthy immune system. Make sure you’re getting enough micronutrients that play a role in maintaining your immune system. Great sources of these come from vegetables, fruits, lean protein and healthy fats.

3) Exercise

- Some studies have shown the 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise every day helps stimulate your immune system. It can also help by boosting circulation, making it easier for immune cells to travel around the body.

4) Drink water

- Keeping hydrated helps with numerous functions in the body. I won’t delve too far into this one but aim for 2-3 litres a day.

5) Decrease stress

Chronic stress is the big problem, it has been shown to decrease immune function increasing your risk of infection. There are many techniques to decrease stress including breathing, meditation and walks in nature.

6) Supplement

- These can help when combined with the above lifestyle changes. To keep healthy my big three supplement recommendations are vitamin D, omega 3 and probiotics and depending on the circumstances a high quality multi-vitamin can help too.

Chris Braxton DC