Summer Time Immune Support

Colds and flu may be more prevalent during the winter months, but the viruses also circulate throughout the summer months. The last thing that you want is for an illness to get in the way of your summertime 2021 plans, so it's crucial to think about immune system support even when the weather is warm. Read on to learn how you can help your immune system function at its best all summer long.

Immune System Basics

The immune system is your body's line of defense against bacteria, viruses, toxins, and fungi and the engine that drives healing following a wound or injury. Many cells, organs, and tissues play a role in immune system function. For your body to respond to threats and injuries appropriately, all of these integral parts of the system must work together efficiently. By taking some simple steps, you can support the activities of your immune system so that it can defend you from the germs that cause colds, flu, and other illnesses.

Making Lifestyle Changes

To support your immune system, make the following changes to your lifestyle as needed:

• Quit Smoking. Cigarettes expose your body to toxins that can overwhelm your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Smoking can also make you more likely to come down with bronchitis or pneumonia.

• Drink in Moderation. Drinking alcohol in excess can hinder immune system function. Alcohol turns into sugars in the body, weakening immune system response.

• Get Enough Rest. Studies have found that a lack of sleep impairs your body's natural rhythms and can have a negative impact on your immune system. Most adults require eight hours of sleep every night.

• Stay Active. While strengthening your cardiovascular system, lungs and muscles, exercise also helps keep the immune system running smoothly. Experts recommend that adults get at least 180 minutes (3 hrs) of moderately intense exercise every week.

• Eat a Healthy Diet. Essential vitamins and minerals play important roles in immune system health. Eating a well-balanced diet that consists of lean protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy can provide your body with the fuel it needs to power your immune system.

Protecting Yourself From Illness

When working at its best, your immune system is a powerful foe to germs, but it can still become overwhelmed, leading to illness. That's why you must take steps to protect yourself from viruses, bacteria, toxins, and fungi by:

• Washing your hands regularly. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds before and after preparing food, before and after you eat, after you go to the bathroom, before and after treating a cut or wound, after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze, and after touching an animal or garbage. Doing so can significantly decrease your chances of becoming ill.

• Getting vaccinated. If you haven't received the COVID-19 vaccine, get one as soon as you can, and then talk to your doctor about what other vaccines are recommended for a person of your age and overall health. Vaccines teach your immune system how to respond to germs that cause serious illness.

• Using caution around sick people. If you know, you will be coming in contact with someone who is sick, wear a mask and wash your hands frequently.

• Cleaning frequently. Clean bathrooms and kitchen countertops frequently to fight germs. You should also disinfect high-touch surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, faucets, and your phone regularly.

The Benefits of Immune Support Vitamins

It can be challenging to stick to the healthy diet that your immune system needs with a hectic lifestyle. By adding an immune support supplement to your daily routine, you can address this problem. Look for a supplement made with natural ingredients that your body can easily break down, absorb and utilize. Be sure to consult your medical provider before taking any new immune support vitamin.

NAC and Immune System Function

An NAC immune booster can help to keep your body's natural defenses primed. NAC stands for n-acetyl cysteine. It is a precursor to the amino acid l-glutathione. Sometimes called the master antioxidant, l-glutathione breaks down harmful free radicals that can damage cells and assists with the removal of toxins. Increasing your body's supply of NAC with a supplement may help your body produce l-glutathione more efficiently. In addition, people often take NAC for lung health and to address inflammation based on the findings of clinical studies.

Quercetin Benefits for Immune Support

A quercetin supplement is another immune support solution that you can add to your diet.  Quercetin is a plant compound called a flavonoid. Like l-glutathione, quercetin acts as an antioxidant, offering protection from free radicals. Research has also uncovered potential benefits in taking quercetin for allergies. Body Kitchen Mega NAC + Quercetin gives you both NAC and quercetin at daily doses validated by scientific research, making immune support supplementation simple.