Crisp mornings, gloriously colourful foliage and milder days signal the arrival of autumn. We know that as the weather gets colder, we’ll see an increase in colds and flus. Why is it that despite all the viruses flying around, some people get sick, and some people remain healthy?
Our resilience to getting sick comes down to the state of our wellbeing as we come into autumn and approach winter: our stress levels, our energy or exhaustion levels, our toxic load, our sleep quality and so on.
Immune Boost
We often hear about ‘boosting’ our immune system but, for most of us, our immune system works just fine so long as we don’t overburden it. What we’re really aiming to do is to optimise our immune function. Or to put it differently, rather than trying to boost it, the aim is to remove any obstacles to your immune system responding effectively.
We are constantly exposed to pathogens but an immune system at the top of its game can and does handle them effectively. So, what’s important to focus on is removing the things that can act like handbrakes on your immune system.
Rather than needing an ‘immune boost’ you may well need a de-stress as well as some support for your liver, adrenals or lymphatic system to keep your wellbeing and immune system buoyant.
Sleep
Do you sleep soundly and wake up feeling rested? If not, you’re depriving your body of its optimal time for repairing itself. For some, it’s as easy as deciding to get to bed earlier. However, if you’re battling with insomnia, it’s worth getting some professional help to get on top of it. In my experience, herbal medicine can be excellent in restoring quality sleep.
Nutrition
If your shopping trolley is packed with fruits and veggies rather than processed foods, the chances are you’re doing ok with accessing quality nutrition. Do you need vitamins? Maybe. You may have one of a few common deficiencies such as zinc or vitamin D, in which case your immune system is compromised. If you want to find out more, work with a holistic GP or at least one with an interest in preventative health or a naturopath to guide you.
Stress
If you’re exercising regularly and sleeping well, then you’re likely managing your stress pretty well. However, if you’re reliant on stimulants like coffee to function through the day and alcohol to wind down at night, then it’s likely that you’re steadily running your immune function into the ground.
Keep in mind whatever you do to help your immune system will also have other benefits such as better energy, fewer aches and pains and clearer thinking.
Editor’s note: This wellbeing column provides information that is general in nature. Please always refer to your preferred health professional for advice suited to your personal healthcare requirements.
