Why Winter is Cold & Flu Season & Tips to Stay Healthy

There are several reasons why people tend to get sick more easily during the cold & flu season. Understanding these reasons can help you avoid situations where your immune system will be compromised, causing you more prone to catching some bugs.

• Most people spend a majority of their time indoors during the cold weather season. Enclosed environment and close proximity with others encourage the spread of germs.

• High-sugar, high-fat “comfort foods” and holiday fares can weaken the immune system – sugar, in particular, can suppress immunity.

• Stress caused by the holiday season induces the body to produce corticosteroids, which suppress the immune system.

• Most people don’t get enough sleep during the holiday season, causing an increase in cortisol level and a decrease in immunity. Cortisol also makes us crave sugar, which suppresses immunity.

• Shorter daylight hours can cause “winter blues” – low psychological states can suppress the immune system.

• Dry weather reduces the moisture level of mucous membranes in the nasal passage, which are important in preventing unwanted bacteria and viruses from entering the respiratory system.

• Most people spend a majority of their time indoors during the cold weather season. Enclosed environment and close proximity with others encourage the spread of germs.

• High-sugar, high-fat “comfort foods” and holiday fares can weaken the immune system – sugar, in particular, can suppress immunity.

• Stress caused by the holiday season induces the body to produce corticosteroids, which suppress the immune system.

• Most people don’t get enough sleep during the holiday season, causing an increase in cortisol level and a decrease in immunity. Cortisol also makes us crave sugar, which suppresses immunity.

• Shorter daylight hours can cause “winter blues” – low psychological states can suppress the immune system.

• Dry weather reduces the moisture level of mucous membranes in the nasal passage, which are important in preventing unwanted bacteria and viruses from entering the respiratory system.

Coming soon:

• Nutrition to support a Strong Immune System

• Immune-Boosting Foods

• Using Herbs to Boost Immunity & Fight Illness

Check back for my next blog post as we dig in to how to keep your body healthy & immune system strong.

Coach Jenny

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