20 Simple Tips To Stay Healthy This Flu Season 🤧

Ever feel like you're not moving fast enough toward your health goals? 😣

I’ve had the privilege of working with countless individuals on their health journeys, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: progress, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated.

I often see clients get frustrated when they feel like they aren’t moving fast enough. Maybe the scale hasn’t shifted as much as you’d hoped, or you’re still battling that afternoon energy slump. But honestly, those little changes you’re making? They matter, and they’re paving the way for lasting health.

  • Did you choose a more nourishing meal today?

  • Did you get an extra hour of sleep, even though your mind wanted to keep scrolling?

  • Or maybe you resisted the urge to hit snooze and got a workout in?

These moments, while they might seem small in isolation, are building blocks. They’re signals that you’re on the right path, prioritizing your health one step at a time.

I always remind my clients that transformation doesn’t happen in an instant. It’s not about perfection; it’s about consistency and those seemingly tiny milestones that move the needle forward. Over time, these small victories compound into something much bigger.

So today, I challenge you to think about one small win you’ve achieved. It doesn’t have to be monumental—it just has to be yours. Celebrate it, share it, and let that momentum carry you forward! 🎉

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20 Simple Tips To Stay Healthy This Flu Season 🤧

Flu season is here, but with a few simple habits, you can boost your immune system and protect yourself. As a functional medicine doctor, I focus on supporting the body’s natural defenses through nutrition, lifestyle, and holistic health practices. 

Here are 20 of my favorite tips to keep you feeling your best during flu season:

1. Wash your hands frequently – Soap and water are your first line of defense against germs.

2. Prioritize sleep – Your immune system needs rest to function at its best. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

3. Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins and stay energized.

4. Eat a nutrient-rich diet – Load up on colorful fruits and veggies, especially those high in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants.

5. Incorporate more garlic – Garlic has natural antiviral properties that can help ward off sickness.

6. Add elderberry to your routine – Elderberry supplements can give your immune system a boost when you’re exposed to the flu.

7. Get plenty of vitamin D – Low levels of vitamin D are linked to weaker immune responses. Try to get some sunlight or consider a supplement if needed.

8. Stay active – Regular exercise, even something as simple as walking, helps improve circulation and strengthens your immune system.

9. Reduce sugar intake – Too much sugar can suppress your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.

10. Take probiotics – A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system. Probiotics help maintain that balance.

11. Use a humidifier – Dry air can irritate your respiratory system. A humidifier helps keep airways moist and more resistant to viruses.

12. Try herbal teas – Teas like echinacea, ginger, or turmeric have immune-supporting properties and can soothe sore throats.

13. Limit alcohol – Alcohol can weaken your immune defenses, so try to cut back, especially during flu season.

14. Don’t skip meals – Eating regularly supports your body’s energy levels and keeps your immune system working smoothly.

15. Manage stress – Chronic stress can take a toll on your immune health. Take time to unwind, meditate, or practice deep breathing.

16. Diffuse essential oils – Oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree can help purify the air and support respiratory health.

17. Use hand sanitizer on the go – When soap and water aren’t available, keep a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol handy.

18. Stay warm – Cold weather can lower your body’s defenses, so make sure you bundle up and stay warm.

19. Get a flu shot – If it’s right for you, consider getting a flu shot for added protection this season.

20. Listen to your body – If you feel run down, give yourself the time to rest and recover before pushing yourself.

Flu season can be tough, but these small daily habits can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones healthy.

If you feel like you need some personalized support, schedule a free discovery call with me to discuss your unique needs and how I can help you get back to feeling your best!  💗  And check out my favorite hormone-safe products and supplements HERE.

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Supplement Of The Week: Vitamin C 

I’m always on the lookout for simple, effective ways to help my clients strengthen their immune systems naturally. One of my go-to recommendations is ensuring you’re getting enough Vitamin C. It’s an essential nutrient that plays a huge role in keeping your immune defenses strong, especially during times of stress or illness. And the best part? It’s easy to find in so many everyday foods! 

Here are four key ways Vitamin C supports your immune health:

1. Boosts White Blood Cells

Vitamin C helps promote the production of white blood cells, which are your body’s first line of defense against infections and viruses. More white blood cells mean a quicker, more effective immune response when your body faces a threat.

2. Acts as a Powerful Antioxidant

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, which means it helps protect your cells from harmful free radicals that can damage your immune system. By neutralizing these free radicals, Vitamin C keeps your immune cells functioning properly.

3.  Supports Skin Barrier Function

Your skin is one of your body’s largest physical barriers to infection, and Vitamin C helps maintain its integrity. By supporting collagen production, it strengthens your skin and helps prevent pathogens from entering the body.

4. Speeds Up Recovery

If you do catch a cold or flu, Vitamin C can help shorten the duration of your illness. It helps reduce the severity of symptoms and supports faster recovery by keeping your immune system functioning efficiently.

Jamie Sheppard