We are coming into the time of year traditionally called “the cold and flu season.” Are there actually more germs out there when it’s cold than during warmer months? Well, no. Then what are some good ways we can keep our immune systems up and adapt to the changes in temperature and humidity?

Number one is to keep ourselves hydrated. During the cool seasons, we have a tendency to stop paying attention to the amount of water we drink. It’s true that we are not sweating as much, but the humidity is dropping in the air and that is pulling more water out of our bodies. The college of sports medicine says we should take half our bodyweight and drink that many ounces of water every day. This keeps our mucus membranes moist and flowing.

Number two is eating fresh fruits and veggies. Internal sanitation is critical for avoiding congestion of our digestive system. Fruits and vegetables (except bananas and beans) are eliminators that feed our intestines and push out waste. We should decrease starchy foods like rice, bread and cereals which tend to congest the system.

Number three is to get proper rest and recuperation. We need sleep to recharge our batteries and rebuild our bodies. When we become exhausted we start using adrenaline to keep alert. Adrenaline is useful for short bursts of energy but in the long run lowers the effectiveness of our immune system and causes weight gain.

Number four is to keep ourselves moving. Exercise causes the contraction of muscles and that action moves our blood throughout our bodies. This distributes nourishment and oxygen and allows the filtering of waste and carbon dioxide. This action in our bodies keeps us from having stagnant areas that can build up stress.

These four steps are very important to lower the physical and chemical stress in our bodies so we can physically function closer to 100 percent. Even though it’s no longer beach body season, we can do the things to keep us healthy and truly enjoy the fall. Remember, it is normal to be healthy!”

Chiropractic zone healing helps you live a healthier stress free life. Stress puts pressure on the immune and nervous systems and negatively affects the signals traveling along the nerves. Zone treatments release stress in the system and act as a “reboot” for the whole nervous system. As the body handles stress more effectively, then the person is free to relax and heal.