This fall, COVID-19 and the flu will circulate in the United States at the same time. Wearing masks, washing hands, and social distancing are measures you can take that will help protect you from both COVID-19 and the flu. Don’t let this year’s flu season catch you by surprise. Here’s what you need to know about the flu and how to prepare this fall. What is Influenza? Influenza (flu) is a viral respiratory infection that …
Summer is coming to a close, and school is back in session. With students heading back to school, whether online or in person, many parents may be experiencing a lot of stress surrounding the unknown. The summer months are full of letting loose, and we tend to slip away from our routine. The kids are out of school, so there is no need for structure around a rigid schedule. Summer freedom is great, but, like …
Alcohol can affect a person’s health in several ways, with most people being aware of what excessive drinking can do to the liver and cardiovascular system. However, not many people are aware that alcohol can also negatively impact immunity, increasing the risk of catching illnesses. Healthy habits, such as being active, eating well, and getting enough sleep, can keep your immune system in check. But when unhealthy factors, like stress, smoking, or drinking alcohol, are …
When the immune system comes into contact with a pathogen, it triggers an immune response by releasing antibodies. However, when your immune system is weak, you’re left without any natural protection against illness, leaving you open to “opportunistic infections.” If you are searching for a way to boost your immune system, one of your first steps should be visiting the grocery store. Incorporating specific foods into your diet may help strengthen your immune response. Plan …
Sometimes stress can be a positive force, helping you accomplish tasks more efficiently or motivating you to perform well at your next job interview. However, when you feel unable to perform or cope with a certain situation, you start to experience negative stress. If you experience this type of stress over a prolonged period, it could become chronic and negatively impact your health and wellbeing. Not only does chronic stress affect the immune system, but …
Anyone on a diet or lifestyle change knows to not overindulge in sugar. Having too much sugar can drain your energy levels, lead to weight gain, and cause an increased risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. It is important to keep track of how much sugar you are consuming daily. The American Heart Association recommends that men consume no more than 36 grams and women consume no more than 25 grams of sugar …
Your gut health plays an essential role in your overall health and well being. The digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract), the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Your digestion is important because your body needs nutrients, such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, from food and drinks to work properly and stay healthy. Signs of an unhealthy gut Many factors play a role in gut damage. These can include high …
Staying motivated to workout can be challenging, especially when you get bored of your program, or you don’t see the results you want fast enough. We all know that staying active is vital for your overall health and wellness, but it doesn’t always have to be boring! Read on to discover ways to stay motivated and enjoy your workout routine! The benefits of physical activity and exercise: Reduces the risk of a heart disease …
Maintaining a healthy immune system is essential for overall wellness. The immune system allows us to feel our best! It is the body’s defense against infections, helping attack bacteria and viruses to keep us healthy. Generally the immune system does an incredible job of protecting us against disease, but sometimes it needs some help. That’s when these healthy strategies come into place. 1. Exercise regularly Exercise may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and …
Vitamin D and fish oil are essential for healthy cell growth and function. They are also essential nutrients that support the immune system. The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend against germs. The function of the immune system is to prevent or limit infection by recognizing and destroying the “foreign” invaders that make their way into the body. Immune benefits of vitamin D Vitamin D, …
