3 simple self-care habits to help boost your immunity

(NC) Nobody likes being sick. Sometimes, especially during the colder months, getting sick can feel inevitable, but there are steps you can take to help avoid it. Self-care, which encompasses everything from making healthier choices to treating minor ailments yourself, is just as important for staying well as it is for getting well. Here are three practices from the self-care experts at consumer health company Haleon that can help your immune system: 

1. Try a new hobby. Integrating wellness hobbies into your everyday life can play a significant role in your self-care by helping you wind down and reconnect with what makes you feel good. Whether spending time outdoors, getting active or prioritizing restful sleep, these activities can support both mental and physical health.
   Top tip: Regular physical activity (30 to 60 minutes most days) improves circulation and lowers stress hormones. 
2. Get your vitamins and minerals. Your body relies on vitamins and minerals to maintain your immune system. Some, like vitamins A and B6, help it build antibodies. Others, like vitamins C and D provide wider support to your immune system. Iron helps carry oxygen to your cells, while zinc helps their overall function.
   A varied diet is essential, but another way to help support your body is with a multivitamin or an immunity-boosting supplement. 
3. Drink more water. Water powers nearly every function in the body, but it’s especially important for immunity. It flushes toxins out of your system and aids the absorption of nutrients like vitamins and minerals.  Staying hydrated can also help reduce inflammation and help maintain the integrity of your mucous membranes.
   Getting enough water can be a challenge for many people. You can try filling a large bottle or cup to avoid having to make multiple refills, or add some fresh mint or sliced fruit to the water to give it some flavour.

Self-care is simple to put into practice and can make a difference to personal and community health; reducing your chances of needing a doctor or emergency room visit can help lower overall strain on the health care system. That’s a lot of power for some simple habits.

Learn more at getwellstaywell.ca.