Supercharge your immune system

I don’t know about you, but our house has been hit with some bad viruses lately! Between colds, flues and gastro bugs, it has been hard to catch a break the last few months.
The winter to spring transition can be tricky for our bodies to deal with the temperature and weather swings.  It can put strain on our immune system - making it harder to fight viruses that come our way.  

Here are a few tips that your whole family can benefit from as we look ahead to the transition to spring:

• Wash your hands every time you come home. We have come to rely on hand sanitizer and although it is convenient, it isn’t effective for all bugs, including the most common cause of gastroenteritis, Norovirus. Use friction, soap and count to 20!
  
• Travel with sanitizing wipes. Wipe down shopping carts, airplane surfaces, toys, etc. to reduce exposure.
  
• Drinks Water. A hydrated immune system is more effective than a dehydrated one.  You can make your hydration more effective by adding electrolytes! Many different formulas exist - choose something without sugar or aspartame.  EmergenC is a nice immune supportive option.
  
• Be mindful of refined sugar intake. Sugar suppresses your immune system and you want your immune army to be in top shape and ready to go!
  
• Emphasize protein. White blood cells require protein so make sure you are getting protein at every meal. I give my kids a protein shake (protein powder mixed with water or milk) a couple times weekly. We call it “muscle milk” and the boys love it!  Smoothies are a great option as well. Eggs, deli meat, Greek yogurt, turkey bites, nuts and nut butter are other protein sources my family enjoys.
  
• Get to bed on time. Going to sleep between 10-11 pm is ideal (earlier for kids of course).  Your body heals, regenerates, digests and detoxes at night. A quality night sleep will ensure a robust immune response.
  
• Take targeted supplements. Although I can’t provide dosages in this email, I recommend supplements containing vitamins D, A, C, zinc as well as probiotics, elderberry, and adaptogenic herbs like reishi, licorice, andrographis, and astragalus can be helpful. Let’s chat in a consult to determine the best formula for you.
  

I hope these tips help you and your family stay strong and healthy!

Yours in health,
Dr. Melissa Bingeman