The seasons are changing: Here's How You Can Support Immune Health

September 14, 2022

The kids are back at school, the days are becoming shorter, the leaves are starting to change, and the nights are getting cooler. We know from experience that the common cold and flu hit the hardest when the weather gets the chilliest, but why?

ARE THE SEASONS ACTUALLY CONNECTED TO HEALTH?

Science has shown 3 main ways that seasons may influence health:

1. Environmental Factors - One of the main predictors of disease around the globe is temperature. Evidence shows that both northern and southern hemisphere suffer from higher rates of respiratory illnesses during the winter months. Lower humidity levels are also associated with higher rates of these viruses. Although these trends in virus prevalence are well-observed, more research is needed to understand why.
   
   
2. Gene Expression - Studies have found that 94 DNA transcripts, the basis for gene expression, show seasonal variability. This variability was found in transcripts involved with immune function. If the gene expression for immune function isn’t functioning optimally, that person may be more susceptible to these seasonal conditions.
   
   
3. Human Behavior - As temperatures drop, people are likely to spend more time indoors and in confined areas, so viruses can spread easily by contact. Because people are inside more often and the sun is shining less, vitamin D levels tend to drop in the winter. Vitamin D is believed to play a role in the immune response.

• Simple Habits - frequent hand washing, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, eating the rainbow, exercising and decreasing stress levels are examples of good habits to keep germs at bay and immune defenses strong.
   
• Key Vitamins - oranges and other foods high in vitamin C are shown to be a powerful antioxidant that contributes to the body's immunity. Not getting enough vitamin C can weaken the body's immune defense. Vitamin D levels tend to drop in the winter months. Oftentimes people may not even be aware if they are deficient in this nutrient. Low vitamin D levels are associated with impaired immune function.
   
• Probiotics - 70% of the immune system is located in the gut! Research shows that the probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 may help support immune function. Probiotics are helpful in preveting harmful bacteria from attaching to the intestines. Probiotics are also good for producing beneficial substances that help promote intestinal health and balance, and modulating immune health.

RAISE YOUR IMMUNE DEFENSE!

Adding probiotics to your daily routine is like adding one more tool to your toolbox for supporting your immune health this winter. 

A healthy immune system provides multiple response layers against environmental influences. The strength of this barrier is influenced by internal and external factors that can deplete the body’s reserves.

Adequate macro- and micronutrient intake plays an essential role in immune cell functions and key metabolic pathways. Replenishing nutrients essential to healthy immune function can help.

Help keep your gut thriving and in balance - your microbiome will thank you!
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