Cold and flu season is upon us and its definitely something we want to avoid at all costs this year, not just for our health but our family as well. Here are our top 8 tips for natural ways you can support your immune system to prevent a cold and the flu this year. 

1. Wash your Hands Frequently and Thoroughly

This sounds pretty simple but it really makes a difference when it comes to the spread of germs. Especially if you have younger children around, you definitely want to make sure you are washing their hands as well. You want to make sure to scrub your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds in order to kill viruses. Twenty seconds is about how long it takes to sing the ABC’s one time through. 

2. Prioritize Gut Health

Nearly 80% of your immune system is located in your gut so making sure your gut is in good health is very important. Incorporating things like probiotics, bone broth, collagen, and fermented foods will help keep your gut health on track. 

3. Reduce Your Stress

Stress is known to suppress the immune system so prioritizing self care is very important. And self care doesn't need to be expensive! Meditation, yoga, walks in nature, and warm soothing baths are all ways you can incorporate self care into your daily routine. 

4. Reduce Sugar and Alcohol Consumption

Sugar and alcohol will suppress your immune system and make it harder for you to fight off infections. Reducing your sugar and alcohol intake during cold and flu season is a good idea to keep your immune system healthy. 

5. Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep

Sleep helps the body recover and repair and chronic sleep deprivation can suppress the immune system making it easier to catch a bacterial or viral infection. So make sure you prioritize your sleep and sleep routine every night. 

6. Sweat Daily

Whether thats in the form of exercise or sauna use; sweating is a great way to detox the body from potential toxins and detox the body. 

7. Consider Supplements

Certain supplements such as vitamin D, vitamin C, glutathione, and curcumin all have  immune system enhancing properties that you could potentially benefit from this season. Everyone is different so make sure to get tested and consult with your physician before taking anything. 

8. Prioritize your Fruits and Veggies

The saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" isn't just a catchy saying our parents would tell us; there is a lot of validity to it. Fruits and vegetables are full of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals that will help fight off foreign invaders into the body and keep the immune system healthy. Make sure to incorporate them into every meal to ensure you're getting your daily required amount of 9 servings. We love recommending a Greens powder to help make this process easier. 

We hope that these tips help you this cold and flu season! Leave us a comment and let us know which tip helps you the most!