Cold and flu season has arrived—the first cases of flu have already made their way into east Tennessee.

You know that your best defense against the flu is the flu shot, but there are also other steps you can take to lower your risk of both cold and flu. Our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to talk a bit about boosting your immune system.

Why Is a Strong Immune System Important?

The body’s immune system is our main line of defense when it comes to infections. When the immune system is strong, it helps fight off infections from bacteria and viruses.

However, when the system is weakened, our defenses are weakened, too, making illness more likely.

Signs of a Weakened Immune System

• Fatigue
• Frequent illnesses
• Digestive issues

Are You Being a Friend or a Foe to Your Immune System?

Did you know that there are actually things we can do that weaken our immune system? For instance, not exercising, eating too much sugar and poorly managing the stress in our lives can lead to a weakened immune system.

Living a healthy lifestyle is your best method of boosting your immune system—and staying illness-free this fall and winter.

Tips to Boost Your Immune System

• Don’t smoke.
• Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Get adequate sleep.

Think you might be coming down with the flu? Our AFC Urgent Care TN locations are open seven days a week in order to better care for our community members.