[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Summer is the perfect season to be outdoors and enjoy the scenery that the country has to offer. However, it is also when you might experience more rain and increased exposure to respiratory and waterborne illnesses. Read on to learn more about strengthening your immune system during summer.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]
1. Enjoy Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]This time of year offers lots of immune-boosting fruits and vegetables. From citrus fruits to various berries, your body will thank you for making healthier food choices. These are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help protect your body against harmful free radicals. These nutrients ensure your body has the support to fight infections and diseases that could lead to life-threatening consequences.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]
2. Stay Hydrated
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]In the hotter months, staying hydrated can help you flush out toxins and improve the functioning of your body cells. Sometimes, it can be challenging to keep up with the body’s required amount of water to maintain overall health. However, these are simple tips to follow to ensure you don’t skip your recommended hydration levels:
- Spruce up your water with fruits to give it more flavour.
- Add variety by including other fluids like herbal teas.
- Consider foods with higher water content, such as cucumber, lettuce and watermelon.
- Pair your eating schedule with drinking water so you don’t forget to stay hydrated.
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3. Soak Up the Sun
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]While prolonged exposure to the sun is dangerous, you should still take advantage of its numerous benefits for your health and well-being. For instance, being in the sun for at least 20 minutes can improve vitamin D production, which is essential for regulating your immune system and blood pressure levels. Moreover, it can help maintain the health of your blood vessels to ensure nutrients and oxygen are transported efficiently to vital organs.
Other benefits of spending time soaking up the sun include:
- Better absorption of calcium for stronger bones.
- Improved air quality.
- Increased melatonin production, which helps you sleep better.
- Boosting your mood to promote good mental health.
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4. Get Moving Outdoors
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Physical activity is an excellent way to improve circulation and keep your immune system active. Whether swimming, hiking, or taking a simple beach walk, making the most of the outdoors can reap benefits that promote good health. Regular exercise reduces inflammation and supports the production of immune-boosting cells. Plus, it’s a great way to de-stress, which can help maintain immunity.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]
5. Prioritise Restful Sleep
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]With longer days and shorter nights in summer, you can expect some disturbances that can affect your regular sleep routine. If your body clock has hit a slump from juggling the holiday demands and trying to get back to regular programming, this would be the best time to prioritise restful sleep. Quality sleep is necessary to ensure your body repairs and strengthens itself, but lack of sleep can result in various health concerns.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]
6. Cut Back on Sugar and Alcohol
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]While it’s tempting to indulge in sugary treats or alcoholic beverages, you should remember that excessive sugar and alcohol can suppress your immune function and lead to health concerns such as exposure to calories without nutritional value that lead to weight gain, an increased risk of chronic inflammation and high blood pressure. You should consider lowering your sugar and alcohol consumption and choose alternatives like fresh fruit salads, refreshing juices and drinking more water to stay hydrated. Most importantly, moderation is necessary to continue enjoying the summer while staying healthy.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]
7. Manage Stress Effectively
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Stress caused by different reasons can take a toll on your immune system, making you more vulnerable to illnesses. Whether you’re faced with the financial pressures of the new year’s demands or are anxious about what to expect, finding effective ways to cope with the emotional and mental rollercoaster of the unknown is important. Finding effective ways like spending time in nature, sharing moments with loved ones or taking on new hobbies can help reduce stress-causing hormones such as cortisol and boost your overall mood, a vital ingredient for a stronger immune system.
You should take this time to build resilience to common illnesses like the cold and allergies. Preparing your immune system through practising simple healthy habits like staying hydrated and spending time outdoors can help improve your health and allow you to enjoy what this season offers. Your Affinity Health Day-to-Day and Combined plans provide unlimited TeleHealth consultations for exceptional management and treatment of common daily illnesses to ensure you stay healthy all summer[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
