Boosting Your Immune System During the Holidays

What can make the holidays more of a challenge? Getting sick.

With all the stress this time of year and traveling to every shopping center under the sun, we're all at high risk to spending the holidays sick on the couch. You'd be surprised how easy it is to give your immune system a boost to fight off these viruses floating around.

A few extra precautions and some immune system boosting will keep you sipping eggnog this season instead of DayQuil. 

Skip the Mall

Malls are overcrowded, stressful and full of germs. People are out shopping through their sickness and coughing onto every surface and you'll bring those germs right home with all your gifts. Whenever possible, shop online and skip the malls. You'll avoid the crowds while you shop comfortably from your couch online sipping coffee. Talk about wonderful when your packages arrive right to your doorstep. Sorry malls, you can't compete with the beauty of online shopping. If you do need to be out and about, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. Germs and viruses enter your body through your eyes, nose and mouth and touching your face at all is risky business if you're not trying to get sick. 

Stock up on Superfoods

A healthy immune system starts with your belly. Combating all the rich foods we eat during the holidays, incorporating more superfoods into your diet will give you the antioxidants your body needs to fight off winter viruses. Dark leafy greens, broths, and vitamin c rich citrus fruits should make their way into your day to keep your body refreshed. Probiotics also help promote better digestive health which provides an immune system boost and keeps you from feeling bloated. When you eat better you'll sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed to start each day. Plan your weekly meals around immune system boosting foods to give the whole family a fighting chance against the flu this time of year. 

Focus on Self Care

It's the time of selfless giving, but don't forget to take care of yourself. Focus on your self care routine each day, starting the day with a good breakfast and devoting some time to unwinding before bed. Stress lowers our resistance to illness and this is one of the most stressful times of the year. Take a bath or watch your favorite show, however you can unwind and relax after a long day of holiday shopping, errands and party planning. You'll feel a little more festive when you wake up well rested and the rest of your family will follow your lead. 

Boosting your immune system is easier than you think. 

Make some healthy lifestyle changes this time of year and you'll head into the holidays feeling your best and avoid the winter plagues with your new and improved immune system! 

Help the cause even further by teaching your kids about how to stay healthy during the holidays and make healthier lifestyle choices. 

Have a happy and healthy holiday season from The Birth Haven!

 

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