As cooler weather approaches, and with the holidays around the corner, it’s important to prioritize your health. Boosting and maintaining your immune health is something I like to put extra focus on this time of year!
I’ve adopted some good habits that have enhanced my immune health, so I thought I’d share them with you! I used to get a lot of colds each year, and now I can’t remember the last time (besides getting Covid lol) that I was sick or even had a sniffle. Keep reading for my tried-and-true #GlowGirlCertified tips to help boost your immune health so you can stay healthy and strong throughout the year!
Take Targeted Supplements:
Supplements can play a key role in supporting your immune health. Thorne is my go-to because of their super clean formulas! They offer a range of high-quality products designed to boost immune health and provide the extra boost your body might need. Thorne’s commitment to purity and efficacy makes their supplements a favorite choice of mine.
My Favorite Immune-Supporting Thorne Supplements-
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Although it is well known that direct sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, many individuals don’t get enough. This supplement supports overall immune health, healthy teeth, bones, and muscles, as well as cardiovascular health and brain function.
Theanine is known for its positive effects shown to positively modify brain waves and the key neurotransmitters involved in mood, focus, and memory. Theanine appears to play a role in the formation of GABA – a neurotransmitter that acts like a "brake" during times of runaway stress.
A powerful antioxidant known to support immune health during the winter months, it can also support your overall health every day, year-round. Linked to several health benefits, including immune function, collagen formation, and liver detoxification, vitamin C helps maintain the body’s normal inflammatory response, as well as promoting good cardiovascular health. Because it is a vitamin that the body can’t produce, vitamin C must be obtained from your diet or from supplementation.
This B complex blend contains an optimal balance of essential B vitamins, with extra vitamin B5 to support healthy adrenal gland and immune function. The nutrients in Stress B-Complex additionally promote cellular energy production, healthy red blood cell formation, cognitive function, and mood.
NAC (N-Acetylcysteine) is an amino acid that supports respiratory health and immune function, in addition to increasing glutathione levels, which supports detoxification and resists oxidative stress.
I also like to take Zinc and elderberry gummies for extra support when I do get sick, or have been around someone who is under the weather.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet:
A well-balanced diet is fundamental to robust immune health. Incorporating a variety of organic foods rich in essential nutrients is key. Vitamin C is a well-known for supporting immune health and can be found naturally in citrus fruits, broccoli, and bell peppers. Additionally, garlic, ginger, spinach, yogurt, almonds, and seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A diet rich in these foods will support your body’s defense to fend off infections and illnesses.
3. Herbs and Spices:
Herbs and spices have more benefits than just enhancing your food’s taste. They have also been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their immune-supportive properties. Oregano, rosemary, ginger, turmeric, cilantro, and peppermint are among those that include immune-supportive properties, and I bet at least one or two are most likely already in your pantry. I have an herb garden and use fresh herbs when cooking and preparing meals.
4. Regular Exercise:
Not only has physical activity been proven to boost immune function throughout your body during exercise, it also up-regulates your immune function for up to three hours after your activity is complete! I enjoy a range of low-to-high impact exercises that support my overall health, including pilates classes, practicing yoga, horseback riding, and walking 10,000 steps a day. In addition, regular physical activity promotes better circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps you manage stress. Find an exercise routine you enjoy (and can stick to!) and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily to keep your immune health in optimal condition.
5. Reduce Stress:
Chronic stress can weaken your immune health over time, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like journaling, meditation, or yoga in your daily routine until these practices become a habit in your daily life. Make time for the activities that bring you joy and relaxation to keep your stress levels in check.
6. Get Enough Sleep:
Adequate sleep is essential for a well-functioning immune system. During deep sleep, your body repairs and regenerates, allowing it to fight off infections effectively. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. I take Thorne’s Theanine and a Thorne magnesium supplement before bedtime to help wind down.
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*This post is sponsored by Thorne. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am reporting on my personal experience regarding the specific Thorne supplements mentioned in this article. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.