Now that it’s January, we’re right in the middle of cold and flu season. If you’re at work or school, you’re sure to be around people who are coughing and sneezing and shooting virus particles out into the air all around you. And while no one wants to get sick, you definitely don’t want to get the flu. The body aches and fever will send you straight to bed, and the fatigue can last for days even after the worst of the symptoms subside.
Here at Foster Chiropractic, we believe the best way to stay healthy is to incorporate things in your daily life that will boost your immune system and help your body ward off viruses. One of those at the top of our list is visiting your chiropractor.
Did you know that a chiropractic adjustment can improve your body’s immune system? Research published in the Chiropractic Journal of Australia showed that patients who received an adjustment had an immune response significantly higher than before treatment. Also, people who come in with colds, sore throats or sinus congestion will often report speedier recovery after a chiropractic adjustment. Recent research shows that the subluxation that occurs during chiropractic correction can aid the immune responses of the body by reducing nerve interference.
In addition to regular visits to the chiropractor, there are some other things you can incorporate into your daily life to help fend off colds and flu.
Wash your hands. Just like you learned in kindergarten, wash your hands before every meal. But you’ll also want to be sure to wash your hands after going to the bathroom or changing a diaper, handling trash, preparing food, caring for a sick person or blowing your own nose. And be sure you’re doing it right, lather up for at least 20 seconds and scrub well everywhere, including the backs of your hands and between your fingers.
Stock up on super foods. It’s important to eat a healthy diet year-round, keeping sugar and sodium at a minimum. But there are some “super foods” that can add a little extra boost to your immune system. Incorporating foods and ingredients such as garlic, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, and blueberries can help ward off colds and other viruses. This is just a short list, bright-colored berries, citrus fruits rich in Vitamin C and all leafy green vegetables can also be included.
Regular exercise. Studies show that regular exercise helps boost the immune system and maybe even helps cut down the number of colds you might get. It might be hard to keep up your running routine in the winter, when the days are short and pretty cold. But it’s better for your body if you don’t give up on your workouts. Find a gym to join or an exercise routine you enjoy at home. Even just a daily walk with the dog will help get your heart pumping.
If you’d like to learn more about ways to live a healthier lifestyle, or you’re interested in scheduling a chiropractic adjustment to boost your immunity, call Foster Chiropractic today. We put a priority on healthy living, and want to improve the health of everyone in the Triad.