Why You Need to Protect Your Immune System this Holiday Season

People need you. They need you to be at this holiday party and that holiday play. Your kids have finals and projects that are due like yesterday. The holiday season can be one of the coziest, most loving times of the year for many, but others dread it.

When the weather changes, grey, hazy skies can sometimes impact an individual’s mood. Last year we talked about Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is a form of winter depression. The holidays can also be a very sad time for others, especially when there was a loss close to any of the previously beloved holidays. It serves as a constant reminder that others are enjoying this season, while for them it’s a symbol of their darkest moments in life.

Germaphobes go into hyper drive during the holiday season because it tends to be the time of year cold and flu season is at its peak. You know the type – they are the ones always sanitizing their common spaces and staying away from anyone who subtly sniffles or coughs.

Between the hustle and bustle to shop, hurrying to finish projects done for school and work often cause people to work beyond their limits, which could be harming their immune system. Stores stay open later to accommodate those who work during business hours, and as a result, people are staying up later and not getting as much sleep.

Here in Phoenix, we often see a shift in the weather’s temperature from the comfortable 70s and 80s to anywhere from 40s to low 70s. The nights also get cooler, and if someone was not prepared with layered clothing, the cold air shock can be the starting point of allowing any dormant bacteria or infections to fester and become a much bigger problem.

Because it is cooler, some people forget to stay hydrated, which is also another way the body defends itself from any intruding viruses or bacteria. Eating habits may change too as people crave warm and hearty meals, instead of the healthy benefits of the high fruit and vegetable diet that is most popular during the warmer months.

Luckily for you, there are options to help with anything that compromises your immune system throughout the November through January holidays.

1. Keep chugging that water. Keep your water intake up to help you stay hydrated and prepare your body to get rid of any intruding viruses or bacteria.


2. Make immune-boosting food choices. Be conscious of what you’re eating and its health benefits for the cold and flu season. You want to eat foods that are high in antioxidants and properties that are great for boosting your immune system, such as Vitamin C and Zinc.


3. Get your heart rate up and jog the gloomy days away. Exercise is a great way to keep your body strong against any foreign antibodies as well as to keep your happiness up by boosting your endorphin hormones!


4. Remember to say no, and get the sleep you need. Maybe all the fun activities aren’t what you really need right now. If you are drained, your presence at these activities will not benefit you in any way. Your body is craving sleep, and your psyche will survive if you miss a holiday event here and there.

Phoenix Family Medical Clinic is a walk-in clinic available to residents of Surprise, Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa, Tempe and much more. We are open six days a week with various hours to accommodate everyone’s schedule. Our specialty is integrative medicine and quality care, so you know you’re getting the best medical advice possible for whatever your condition. We are accepting new patients, so book your appointment online today!

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