As the weather starts to cool down and the days get shorter, our bodies become more susceptible to catching colds and the flu. This is because less sunlight means less vitamin D, which is important in supporting the immune system. Furthermore, viruses are more easily transmissible during colder weather.
What could also be affecting your immune system:
Stress: Stress raises cortisol levels, which can affect the immune system if they stay high for too long. This can damage the body’s cells and also trigger an inflammatory response.
Sleep: The optimal amount of sleep for most adults should be between 7-8 hours of sleep. A lack of quality sleep can result in a weakened immune system as antibodies and protective cytokines are reduced.
Exercise: Getting regular exercise not only keeps our body in good condition but it also increases blood flow and lymph flow. This helps to also increase the level of immune cells such as natural killer cells and T cells roaming the body.
Diet: Eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, especially those containing vitamin C is important. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and can help increase the production of white blood cells as well as protect them from free radical damage.
Herbs and plants that are immune-boosting
Echinacea has an anti-inflammatory effect, which provides protection against chronic diseases. It has been used to treat colds and flus for hundreds of years.
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, which can help in the production of T-Cells which reduces inflammation and fights pathogens.
Try boosting your immune system with Organic Merchant’s range of organic herbal teas and cacao infusions. Why not try their Immune Tea with echinacea or Super Dust packed with antioxidant-rich matcha.
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