Lifestyle Factors and Immunity

Cold and flu season is upon us, so now is a good time to be thinking about strengthening your immune system. Prevention is definitely the best way to lessen your chances of illness at any time. A strong, well-functioning immune system is vital for maintaining good health. Occasionally, a weakened immune system is caused by illness, lifestyle habits, or environmental factors. We often find that certain times of the year seasonal changes bring a wave of contagious illnesses or allergies that make the immune system more vulnerable than usual. Since prevention is always preferable to cure, it makes sense to support the immune system to guard against assaults, from the common cold to more serious illnesses. Drug treatments often rely on antibiotics, which have little to offer the common cold sufferer since antibiotics treat bacterial infections and most colds and flus are viral illnesses. As physicians, our patients often ask us how they can strengthen their immune system. Your first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Suggestions to boost natural immunity include the following tips:

• Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and low in saturated fats
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation
• Exercise regularly (moderate levels)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get plenty of sleep
• De-stress your life
• Wash your hands frequently
• Stop smoking
• Schedule routine health screening tests and exams for your age group and risk category