What Makes it "Cold and Flu Season"?

We are exposed to germs, pathogens, and viruses all year, so what makes the winter months seemingly worse when it comes to “cold and flu” season?

We are exposed to these “germs” year-round, they do not suddenly become more present during the winter months. However, there are definitely circumstances during the winter months that make us, especially the very young and the elderly, more susceptible to getting the cold and flu. We are more susceptible to cold and flu bugs because our defenses are lower during the winter months.

Think about how you spend your time during these colder months. While these months are cozy, they tend to keep us indoors by the fireplace watching movies. As a result, we get less fresh air in our lungs. Not only do we not go outside as much, but we do not open up our houses. We do not get nearly as much (if any) vitamin D from the sun because we are not outside. We get less exercise because we are not outside on walks, working in our yards, or running around chasing our kids and grandkids. The air in our houses during these months tends to be recirculated heat that dries out our mucous membranes that protect our sinuses from infection.

In addition to simply staying indoors more, we also tend to eat less fresh produce and instead turn to processed “comfort food” in the winter months. We also get to enjoy holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas which bring an overconsumption of sugar during the winter months.

The good news is that there are things we can do to beef up our immune system during these winter months. You cannot really pump yourself full of herbs or supplements to keep illness away. Your immune system and your health stems largely from what you eat, how much exercise you get, and how much time you spend outside. Our suggestions for you to help improve your immune system this winter are to do the following:

Spend more time outside…even in the cold. Fresh air and vitamin D do wonders for your immune system.

Cook your own organic, whole foods, and avoid processed, boxed, or sugary foods. Every bite you take is either fueling the illness or fighting it.

Make an effort to exercise more. Making an effort to exercise will beef up your immune system while also providing your natural endorphins that fight the “winter blues.”

Run a humidifier in your house during times when your heat is constantly on.

Eat mineral rich bone broth and increase the amount of concentrated vitamin D you take in orally.

There is no “magic” shot or supplement that will keep you free from illness this winter. Your best defense is to fuel your body with healthy foods, frequent exercise, and fresh air during the months when we are more susceptible to cold and flu bugs.