Healthy Chicks

Cold and flu season is approaching, and every year the whole “Should you get the flu shot?” question brings up quite the heated debate. Heck, you’d think we were talking about Politics!

While getting the flu shot is a personal choice you must make for your health (yes, you do have a say), I feel there are many things you can do to naturally keep your immune system healthy without getting vaccinated.

And while I typically decline the flu shot, this year I chose to bite the bullet since I have a newborn at home, and by getting vaccinated you can pass on antibodies through your breastmilk to help protect little ones. That said, I strongly believe that most healthy adults without compromised immune systems can power through cold and flu season unscathed by making a few simple adjustments for their health.

But whether you choose to get the flu shot or not, everyone — I repeat everyone — can benefit from keeping their immune system healthy. After all, even getting the flu shot doesn’t guarantee you will not get the flu.

Here are some of my favorite tried and true ways to naturally boost the immune system and stay health during cold and flu season.

10 WAYS TO Stay Healthy During Flu Season

1. Prioritize sleep

Limit distractions and electronics before bed, and consider putting your phone on Airplane mode and setting it to Night Shift for warmer, less blue light. Need help falling asleep? Try taking a shot of tart cherry juice, which can help naturally stimulate melatonin production.

2. Boost Your Vitamin C

Increase your Vitamin C consumption this time of year! You can get it naturally from citrus fruits, frozen berries or even green veggies like broccoli and in-season Brussels sprouts.

3. Go Green

Nutrient-rich leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards and chard are great for boosting immune health! I like to cook mine up in a little coconut oil, sea salt and lemon juice. You can also throw them in a smoothie, or opt for a green juice from a local shop.

4. Hydrate

Seriously, you need to be drinking your H2O. Drink a big glass upon waking, and keep filling up a reusable water bottle throughout the day. I like to enjoy a mug of warm water mixed with the juice of 1/2 lemon in the morning to jumpstart digestion and start the day with an extra pep!

5. Sneak in Probiotics

Sneak in probiotics for optimal gut health! I like to get mine from foods like Kombucha, yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut or other fermented foods, but you can also talk to a medical professional about getting a probiotic supplement if needed.

6. De-Stress

It’s no surprise that stress takes a toll on our immune system too! Aim for relaxing activities like yoga, meditation and meditative coloring. Also, get real with yourself about how you’re spending your time. It’s great to be productive and all, but not at the cost of your health. Make time for you.

7. Get Your Vitamin D Levels Tested

During the winter, we get less sunlight and folks in New England are especially notorious for having low levels of Vitamin D. Get your levels checked, and supplement if needed! I like to take Carlson Lab’s Super Daily D3 drops, which you can purchase discounted on Thrive.

Low Vitamin D levels are associated with a weakened immune system, especially for those with an autoimmune disease like Celiac’s or Hashimoto’s. Here’s a great article on how Vitamin D may help prevent cold and flus, and its role in supporting immune health.

8. Up Inflammation-Fighting Superfoods

Opt for inflammation-fighting foods like garlic, ginger, and raw local honey. Many juice shops have a ginger-lemon-oregano shot you can get when you feel a cold coming on, or make your own!

Another age-old superfood? Bone broth! It’s great for supporting a healthy gut, and naturally loves up the immune system. Win, win. In fact, the majority of our immune system lives in our intestinal lining. I especially love local New England company Five Way Foods, and I’m also a fan of Bonafide Provisions or if you have the time make your own!

9. Limit Refined Sugars

It may be Apple Pie season, but it’s best to keep refined, added sugars to a minimum as they can cause inflammation in the body and suppress the immune system. Opt for naturally sweetened foods like fruit, root vegetables or even a dash of cinnamon to add a little sweetness to your dish.

10. Avoid Toxins and Germs

Last but not least, use common sense and wash your hands frequently, and this goes for your kiddos too! We love Everyone Soap, made with natural plant extracts and essential oils. Also limit day-to-day toxins by choosing organic foods when you can, and opting for natural, chemical-free bath and beauty products.

Do you get the flu shot? What are your top tips for staying healthy during cold & flu season?