The relationship between the flu and your immune system
What we commonly know as seasonal flu is an infectious disease caused by the influenza virus. The flu is especially prevalent in autumn and winter in temperate zones and is characterized by primarily affecting the respiratory system. However, there have been cases where it has also affected the muscles, brain, or heart. As you know, antibiotics are ineffective against the flu, so strengthening your immune system in autumn is essential for your body to fight the disease effectively. But how can we ensure our immune system is at its best?
How to strengthen your defenses against the flu in autumn?
#1.Good lifestyle habits
Stress weakens your immune system. So do unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Keeping stress levels under control is crucial, as is getting enough rest. Did you know that stress and lack of sleep are intrinsically linked? The perfect combination for effective prevention without having to do anything else is to combine sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, relaxation, and good sleep hygiene.
#2.Vaccination, a half-baked solution
If you are part of a group at higher risk of experiencing a more severe form of the flu (older adults, children, and those with chronic respiratory conditions), vaccination is a good option. It's also recommended for the general population, although it's important to remember that vaccination may not be as effective as it varies from year to year. Vaccination should be done in October.
#3. Maintain hygiene
In every aspect. If you maintain hand hygiene and avoid sharing cutlery, glasses, plates, or utensils, you will have less chance of getting infected.
#4. Avoid hospitals (unless, obviously, you have already been infected)
The number of people with the flu increases enormously during these months, so a hospital is not the best place to prevent it.
#5. Avoid, as much as possible, being in places with large crowds of people and poor ventilation.
Thanks to this you will prevent infection.
#6. Cold weather does play a role in the development of the flu
Or rather, its contagion is favored by both the dry climate typical of autumn and winter and the cold conditions.
#7.Take specific foods and include antioxidant supplements
During these months, the immune system is often weakened. Supplements with antioxidants such as astaxanthin, vitamin C, or vitamin E can be a good complement to everything mentioned above . Similarly, seasonal foods like tangerines or oranges have proven antioxidant properties.