How to Boost Your Immune System with Recuro and Stick to Your Resolutions!

Keeping your immune system in tip-top shape can go a long way towards warding off colds and flu till Spring. Without a healthy immune system, your body can’t fight off infections, viruses or pathogens effectively. Pesky viruses, bacteria and fungi are all around, and given the opportunity, they’ll try to make you sick. You don’t always have to have a serious illness to experience a compromised immune system. Studies show adults have an average of four to six colds a year. If you find you get sick more often than that, or if it takes you longer than a week to feel better after one, that may be the sign of a few things, including a potentially weakened immune system. A nutrient-deficient diet deprives your immune system of the building blocks it needs to function properly. Your immune system is your body’s natural defence against illness, so keep it ready- for-anything by considering these important lifestyle choices listed below. Advice from a licensed physician at Recuro can help too, available 24/7 virtually.

Eat a Nutritious Diet to Boost Your Immune System

• What you eat can have a major impact on your quality of life. A nutrient-deficient diet deprives your immune system of the building blocks it needs to function properly, and conversely, certain foods can boost your immune function by providing the vitamins and minerals your body needs. What to eat Whole foods can positively impact your health—think whole grain bread, fruits, leafy greens and lean proteins. Vitamins and supplements can also help boost your immune system when your diet alone isn’t enough. For most people, taking supplements in addition to a nutritious diet is not necessary. A dietitian can help you shape your meal plans to include foods rich in these immune supporting vitamins and minerals. Consider consuming foods rich in Calcium, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E.

Foods to Avoid

• A diet high in saturated fats and processed foods can lead to inflammation, and chronic inflammation can actually impair your immune response to transmissible illnesses like the flu (and to non-transmissible ones, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and depression). But saturated fats and highly-processed foods aren’t necessarily the worst when compared to sugar. Eating a high-sugar diet alters the balance of gut bacteria which can lead to leaky gut syndrome, triggering inflammation. Acute inflammation is part of your immune response, and when your body is exposed to a pathogen, it’s what you want to happen. Chronic inflammation, however, is a problem and actually leads to a weakening of the immune system. So while natural sugars like the ones found in fruits and vegetables are okay, it’s best to steer clear of or limit foods with added sugar. Adopt healthy sleep habits Make sure you’re getting the recommended seven to nine hours of shuteye a night. It can help your mind and body function properly throughout the day and help bolster your immune system by giving your body a chance to rest. An effective sleep routine can be as easy as:
  • • No caffeine at least six hours before bedtime
    • Maintain a room temperature of 65-69°C each night
    • Sleep in a dark room — this also means avoiding blue light from devices
    • Go to bed at the same time every night, including on weekends

Get Moving

• It’s not yet February don’t give up on your resolutions! Regular physical activity can increase your lifespan, not to mention boost your immune system. Canadian guidelines recommend exercising for at least 2.5 hours per week to achieve health benefits. You should focus on moderate to vigorous aerobic activity each week, broken into sessions of 10 minutes or more. At the end of the day, boosting your immune system can keep you healthy, and we’re available 24/7 to connect you with a licensed medical provider for any questions, guidance or treatment you may need to feel your best. You can also access specialists through our virtual care. Get the guidance and care you need from Recuro to stay healthy, no matter the season.

How Recuro Can Help

• Transform your health journey with Recuro Primary Care by gaining more than just access – gain personalized support. When you choose Recuro, you not only secure convenient and reliable access to primary care but also unlock the power of a centralized medical record. Imagine every visit being a stepping stone towards a healthier you. Our licensed physicians can not only guide you on the right diet plan but also monitor your progress closely. They have instant access to your comprehensive medical history, ensuring earlier diagnoses and seamless management of chronic conditions. Whether you’re already dealing with a chronic condition or want to proactively address potential concerns, our 24/7 virtual care is here for you. Schedule a visit today and embark on a health transformation with tailored guidance, progress tracking, and, if necessary, prescribed medications – all in one comprehensive health support system.

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*Plan configuration & services available may vary. Reach out to your plan administrator or Recuro Health’s Customer Service for a comprehensive list of your covered services at 855-6RECURO (855-673-2876).