Staying Healthy During Flu Season

Winter is in full swing and many have fallen prey to some of the nasty viruses that have been going around. But just because it seems like everyone around you is getting sick, does not automatically mean YOU will get sick.

Even if you already have encountered some type of winter cold, it is entirely likely that your immune system has become stronger by being confronted with it. 

Have you been taking care of yourself?
 

Here at Bothell Chiropractic & Wellness, we don’t get sick very often due to our commitment to making healthy lifestyle choices and our dedication to our immune system boosting, chiropractic care plans. But sometimes, even we can get distracted and caught up in the stresses of life and forget to take care of ourselves. When a few of our very own employees got sick, we had to take a step back and ask ourselves, have we been taking care of ourselves lately? Have we been getting enough rest? Drinking enough water? Getting adjusted regularly? Where was this illness coming from?

Why are we getting sick?

Germs are not the primary source for illnesses as many of us know. Plenty of people deal with sick children, spouses and co-workers on a regular basis, and they, themselves do not become ill, so what is it then? Sicknesses can come in many different shapes and forms, and from many different sources, and if your immune system isn’t working at 100% due to the fact that you are not taking care of yourself, it can be vulnerable to any one of these potential illnesses. But one of the worst things for your immune system is STRESS.

According to WebMD, “Stress that continues without relief can lead to a condition called distress -- a negative stress reaction. Distress can lead to physical symptoms including headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, and problems sleeping. Research suggests that stress also can bring on or worsen certain symptoms or diseases.” (WebMD, The Effects of Stress on Your Body)

All these symptoms of stress can cause your immune system to go down and therefore lead to illness. So if you feel yourself starting to come down with a cold, stop and take a minute to review your daily habits and make sure you’re making your health a priority and are taking time to relax and de-stress.

A few tips for staying healthy

1. Get plenty of rest. Your body needs to recharge to stay healthy, so try to get a good 7-8 hours of sleep. 
2.  Drink plenty of water. To keep your body free of nasty toxins that could potentially bring down your immune system, try to drink at least 60 ounces of water a day. 
3. Get adjusted! Regular adjustments can boost your immune system and help prevent illness.
4. Eat real food! Your diet can affect so many things, and your nutrition gives your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and fight off illnesses. 
5. Take time to relax! Whether it’s a massage or taking a nap, don’t let stress get the best of you. Make sure you take time out for you.
6. Get the “flu-shot.” Try our all natural version of the “flu-shot” which includes vitamin D drops, fish oil and probiotics. (Ask our Result Coordinators how you can get the “flu-shot”trio package at your next visit).

Don’t think that illness is inevitable. There is a lot you can do to stay healthy. Trust your immune system and give it the boost that it needs to fight off the bugs. 

Sources:
1. http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/effects-of-stress-on-your-body