Summer Immune Support
After 2 years of social distancing, sanitizing, and mask-wearing, most of us haven’t been exposed to the typical cold- and flu-causing ‘germs’ that circulate each year. It’s then coming as no surprise people are reporting being laid low by acute illness (not necessarily Covid) - our immune systems have 2 years of isolation to make up for!
Vitamin D has long been known to support immune function, and further medical studies in the past 2 years have looked more at its impact on acute infections. Of particular interest is how people with higher blood levels of vitamin D were less likely to develop severe symptoms or require hospitalization, should they contract Covid.
Although Vitamin D is considered ‘the sunshine vitamin’, only the first step of creation occurs in our skin - further activation takes place in our liver and kidneys. So, even if you develop a nice tan in the summer months it does not necessarily translate to creating adequate levels of this vitamin. The only way to truly know your D status is to test your blood.
Spend as much time outdoors as possible - especially in nature. The beneficial properties include fresh air for your mind and lungs, movement to support lymphatic function (part of your immune system), natural light for mood and vitamin D stimulation. Being in the forest can help even further, as doctors in Japan have found a mere 15 minutes of ‘forest bathing’ can reduce your stress hormone cortisol by 12% - and elevated cortisol is a factor that can reduce immune function.
Since the severity of symptoms is often associated with the amount of viral particles to which people are exposed, you can reduce your risk of high exposure by choosing outdoor dining in place of indoor (our region has great patios!), and by wearing a mask when in busy indoor areas, such as grocery stores and theatres.
An ounce of prevention*:
- oil of oregano; before and after social encounters
- stay hydrated; keep your mucus membranes lubricated
- move your body at least 30 minutes each day; ideally outside
- minimize your intake of refined sugars as they can impair immune function for several hours
- have your Vitamin D blood test done; this can be ordered by your ND, MD, or NP.
And of great importance is pleasure - get out and embrace seeing people again in a manner that is comfortable for you, as happiness is a powerful immune promoter too!
*These are general suggestions and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Discuss this with your qualified healthcare practitioner, especially if you are pregnant, taking medications or dealing with a chronic disease.
