Boost your immune system: Simple steps to stay strong this flu season

Why our sleeping habits can make or break our resistance to influenza

- HEALTHY EVER AFTER CHESHIRE QUE, RND, RN, RD

Our bodies have been wonderfully created with a builtin defense system more complicated than a military force system. Our very own immune system may be complex, but it has one goal. That is to keep our bodies free from illnesses.

The immune system must always be in equilibrium. A healthy and balanced immune system can defend the body against the attack of simple microorganisms that cause infection, such as the common cold, and it can also prevent the development of fatal diseases such as cancer. Unfortunately, in a world that has been bombarded with all kinds of pharmacological solutions to illnesses, we no longer prioritize pursuing a healthy immune system. It has become more natural for us to just succumb to infections such as the flu, thinking that we can just take medications to heal.

Medications will definitely relieve you of flu-like symptoms, and we may need them at times. What truly repairs the cells in the body and prevents one's health condition from further deteriorating, however, is the immune system. That is the main reason why, instead of solely relying on medications, you begin to pursue a healthy immune system to prevent you from getting the flu.

If you want to take care of your immune system to optimize immunity against the flu, the most important thing next to good nutrition and regular exercise is sleep.