Everyone loves fall. From the changing leaves to the crisp morning air—but don’t forget the dreaded sniffles and coughs season that comes with it. That’s right, unfortunately everyone’s favorite time of year is often paired with another, not-so-beloved season: cold and flu season. With a greater risk of colds during the cooler months (combined with everyone’s post-pandemic worries), it’s more important than ever to start taking care of your immune system. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered in the health department. Read on for three ways to strengthen your immune system this fall. #1 Taking a Probiotic One immune strengthening strategy that many people neglect is taking care of the body’s microbiota. You may not realize this, but the good bacteria in your gut actually do more than just break down food and absorb nutrients. Beneficial bacteria family—like Lactobacillus—actually act as a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and infections. Additionally, 70-80% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut, meaning a healthy environment in the gut can help create a stronger immune system. #2 Tapping Into the Immune Supporting Powers of Vitamins and Minerals Speaking of probiotics, did you know that the good bacteria in your gut can be of great help in producing and absorbing vital nutrients—particularly vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals are two crucial components in maintaining a strong immune system. In fact, these are the most important vitamins and minerals you’ll want to stock up during the colder months: Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a powerhouse when it comes to staying healthy. Not only does vitamin C support a healthy epithelial barrier against pathogens, but it also provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits—two things you’ll want when the body gets sick. Vitamin A – Vitamin A plays an important role in cellular functioning and immune processes. Specifically, vitamin A does a great job at keeping immune organs healthy, strong, and ready to fight off infection and disease. Zinc – Numerous studies have linked zinc deficiency to increased risk of infection, and there’s a good reason why. Zinc has been shown to produce and activate T-cells: AKA the body’s response to infection. Zinc can also reduce cold and flu symptoms, such as congestion, sore throat, and coughing. Keep in mind that you most likely don’t need to take a vitamin or mineral supplement if you have a colorful, varied diet. Talk to your health care provider before starting any new supplement. #3 Exercise Regularly Not only does exercise increase cardiovascular, mental, and muscular health, but it’s also great for your immune system! Not only does exercise increase cardiovascular, mental, and muscular health, but it’s also great for your immune system! Essentially, exercise does three main jobs in terms of immunity: Increase T-cells Enhance vaccination response (making it ideal for post-COVID vaccination) Lowers levels of inflammatory cytokines, which studies have linked to weakened immunity Start The Season Strong with Bio-K+® In addition to eating your vitamins and staying active, probiotics can also be used in your healthy lifestyle and self care routine by helping support your immune system. The new Bio-K+ Extra Drinkable Probiotic Immune Health contains the active ingredient Wellmune® (yeast beta glucan) - a scientifically supported active ingredient used to promote immune health. Here at Bio-K+®, your health is our top priority. That’s why all our probiotic products are formulated with three unique bacteria strains: Lacticaseibacillus casei LBC80R®, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus CLR2®, Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285®. With billions of active, beneficial bacteria in every serving, you can rest assured that Bio-K+® probiotics are working their magic from the inside out. Ditch cold and flu season this year, and jump straight into fall with Bio-K+®! Sources: Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017, November 1). Vitamin C and Immune Function. PubMed Central (PMC). Vitamin C and Immune Function - PMC (nih.gov) Childs, C. E., Calder, P. C., & Miles, E. A. (2019, August 1). Diet and Immune Function. PubMed Central (PMC). Diet and Immune Function - PMC (nih.gov) Huang, Z., Liu, Y., Guangying, Q., & Zheng, S. G. (2018, September 1). Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System. PubMed Central (PMC). Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System - PMC (nih.gov) Prasad, A. S. (2008, May). Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells. PubMed Central (PMC). Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells - PMC (nih.gov) Sander, R. (2012, June 29). Exercise boosts immune response. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27750511/
