Is Your Immune System Ready to Fight Off the Common Cold? | AFC Urgent Care of East Tennessee

Chances are by now someone you know has come down with the cold or flu. If you’re one of the lucky ones who has stayed illness-free so far this winter, our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to share some tips to keep that trend going!

Boost Your Immune System

Your immune system is your line of defense when it comes to fighting off infections. That’s why it’s important to do everything you can to strengthen and protect your immunity. Let’s take a look at a few ways to do just that.

First, if you smoke, quit. The chemicals in tobacco smoke have been shown to weaken your immune system. A weakened immune system is less able to fight off infections. In addition, a weakened immune system can also eventually lead to autoimmune diseases. Quit smoking to help keep your immune system going strong! If you need advice on smoking cessation, stop by to chat with our doctor.

Second, eat a healthy diet filled with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Certain fruits and veggies even contain specific nutrients your body needs to help fight off viruses. If you’re wondering which foods to add into your diet to help boost your immune system, fill your plate with foods like:

• Almonds
• Broccoli
• Citrus fruits
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Pineapple
• Red bell peppers
• Spinach
• Yogurt

Finally, try to minimize stress as much as possible. We know—that’s a hard thing to do sometimes. Between craziness at work and craziness at home, some days you still feel frazzled. That’s why it’s important to incorporate stress-reducing activities, like exercise and meditation, into your daily life. These types of activity can help lower your stress and keep your mental health on an even keel, which benefits your immune system.

Think you may already have a cold or the flu? Visit one of our AFC Urgent Care TN locations for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best.