It’s that time of year when colds and the flu run rampant. But, with some great science-backed strategies, you can stay strong and healthy! These new findings can boost your immune system and help you stay well.
CHOOSE CARDIO – Exercise is the number-one thing you can do to keep healthy. People who exercise 5 or more times a week are 43% less likely to get sick than those who exercise only once a week (British Journal of Sports Medicine). CARDIO is especially beneficial, as during aerobic exercise, your immune cells move around more throughout the body and bloodstream. As a result, they are better able to detect and destroy invading pathogens.
EXTRA SLEEP – In a recent study, after subjects were exposed to a live cold virus, 39% of people who had slept 6 hours or less got sick, compared with just 18% of those who had slept more than 6 hours. Sleep loss has been associated with diminished function of the immune cells that help you fight off viruses.
MORE FIBER – Fiber has newfound powers research shows. It’s an energy source for gut bacteria and has immunity strengthening effects. When gut bacteria ferment fiber, metabolites are produced that help the immune system attack the flu virus. Aim for 25 grams of fiber a day.
It’s that time of year when colds and the flu run rampant. But, with some great science-backed strategies, you can stay strong and healthy! These new findings can boost your immune system and help you stay well.
CHOOSE CARDIO – Exercise is the number-one thing you can do to keep healthy. People who exercise 5 or more times a week are 43% less likely to get sick than those who exercise only once a week (British Journal of Sports Medicine). CARDIO is especially beneficial, as during aerobic exercise, your immune cells move around more throughout the body and bloodstream. As a result, they are better able to detect and destroy invading pathogens.
EXTRA SLEEP – In a recent study, after subjects were exposed to a live cold virus, 39% of people who had slept 6 hours or less got sick, compared with just 18% of those who had slept more than 6 hours. Sleep loss has been associated with diminished function of the immune cells that help you fight off viruses.
MORE FIBER – Fiber has newfound powers research shows. It’s an energy source for gut bacteria and has immunity strengthening effects. When gut bacteria ferment fiber, metabolites are produced that help the immune system attack the flu virus. Aim for 25 grams of fiber a day.