Can you beat a cold before it gets you? It's the question many people are asking themselves as we enter this season of sickness. Demetre Skliris, MD is a family medicine physician with the Avera Medical Group McGreevy and provided some insight and tips to help keep your health one step ahead of the viruses and bugs this season.
Do immunity boosters or taking vitamins help prevent sickness?
Vitamin C is the most popular remedies for common cold, but it’s not going to keep you from getting sick. It’s not all bad news though, The National Institutes of Health does have the research to show that taking vitamin C increases the level of antioxidants in your blood and which can help fight off inflammation. Immunity boosters are typically taken before an important event or trip, but it’s probably more placebo than actual preemptive medicine.
Is there a place for supplements and boosters?
Nutrients like B12 and Vitamin D are important for strong energy and can help with immunity levels, but they will only help those who are deficient in the first place. Vitamin Supplements are just that, supplements. They shouldn’t be taken in large doses as too much could lead to digestion issues and deficiencies because your body will stop producing/absorbing vitamins naturally.
How do you boost your immune system naturally?
- Eat a healthy diet: a well rounded diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables will strengthen your immune system with all the vitamins it needs.
- Get moderate exercise: your body will naturally boosts it’s immune systems when you get up and move. It doesn’t have to be a lot either, 30 minutes of walking, biking, or lifting some weights consistently will pay dividends to your health.
- Make bedtime a priority: even one night of restricted sleep (less than 4 hours) suppresses your immune system and can increase inflammation. Keeping that routine can also help avoid insomnia and other issues with falling asleep.
What else can you do to help prevent sickness?
Make sure you have a primary care provider. Having a Primary Care Provider and regular checkups will help you keep track of your levels and identify any deficiencies. Regular checkups will also ensure that you are up to date on any vaccinations that can help prevent the spread of sickness like the Flu.
