Healthy Habits and Vegan Supplements to Strengthen Your Immunity

Although spring is on its way, we’re still suffering the effects of the dreaded flu season. Flu becomes a problem in the colder months for many reasons. We receive less sunlight (therefore, our vitamin D is low), we spend more time indoors spreading our illnesses, and the flu can spread easier in dry, colder air. 

Since we are meeting up with other people more this year than last, there’s a lot more chance for cold and flu to spread, which is why it’s essential that you look after your immune system, so it protects you when you need it! 

Our nutrition plays a huge role in strengthening our immune health. A range of vitamins and minerals are key to a healthy body, and a healthy body means that you’re much more likely to have a robust immune system! Unsurprisingly, evidence suggests that diets limited in variety and low in nutrients can negatively affect an individual’s immune system.

Many people make the mistake of focusing on a few nutrients that they believe will ward off illness, such as vitamin D, C and zinc. However, it’s much more effective to eat a variety. As a result, you will not only have a great immune system but potentially more energy, clearer skin, and much more.

The modern world makes it easy to underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. The appeal of staying up to finish a TV series or a gripping book is all too tempting, and so we often let our sleep routines slip. However, the basic guidelines recommend that adults have a minimum of seven hours of sleep for good health and wellbeing, and this should be a habit that you try never to break, as catching up on lost sleep doesn’t work! 

Receiving nutrients from the source is always going to trump taking supplements; however, eating a balanced diet all of the time is not always a possibility. Many people have been prescribed supplements as they’re great for filling gaps in your diet and lifestyle; for example, taking vitamin D during the winter months is common and benefits us well in the UK. If you’re unsure about which supplement to take, ask your doctor. Here are some vegan-friendly supplement brands for you to browse:

Having a solid exercise routine is one of life’s greatest health elixirs. There are unlimited benefits to getting your body moving, from improving your mental health to strengthening your immune system. Exercise increases the circulation of immune cells and can potentially help bacteria out of your airways. Even 30 minutes per day can make a difference. 

Managing your stress is easier said than done, but you might be surprised at how much your mental health can affect your physical health. For example, being stressed can increase inflammation and limit the body’s ability to fight off infection. Try different methods for getting your stress under control, such as meditation, yoga, exercise, self-care practices, and cutting out whatever is making you feel that way in the first place. Nothing is worth risking your health for! 

Herbal tea is full of antioxidants and vitamins, and herbs have been used in medicine for thousands of years. You can use different herbal teas for various issues; for example, peppermint tea is fantastic for digestive problems like bloating and heartburn. There, unfortunately, isn’t enough science-backed evidence to prove that herbal tea can support your immune system. Still, they are filled with extraordinary, health-boosting properties - so it's worth a try. 

The most important tip is to be consistent with your healthy habits. Of course, adopting these habits a few weeks before winter isn’t going to help as much as being healthy all year round! But once you’ve incorporated some healthy habits in your daily life, it’ll soon become second nature.