Four ways to boost your immunity

As temperatures drop and the air starts to bite, it’s important to look after your immune system to help you stay well.

Now that autumn is here, there is a good chance that you’ll find yourself with the first sniffles of a cold.

Aussie adults can experience the common cold between two to four times a year.

Your first line of defence in fighting off illness is your hard-working immune system, which acts like an invisible coat of armour to help keep you in tip-top shape.

There are some simple and easy-to-embrace things you can do to support your immunity, and what better time than now to adopt them.

Take sensible steps to avoid illness

Washing your hands thoroughly in soap and water is an immediate preventative measure to keep germs at bay and to stop the transfer to others.

If you’re coughing and sneezing, do it into a tissue or your elbow and wash your hands afterwards.

Eat nutrient-rich foods

You know the saying, you are what you eat? Seems your immune system is too.

US research says a diet packed with fruits and vegetables, lean protein and wholegrains and nutrients like vitamin C, D and zinc can help keep your immune system running properly.

Try foods such as orange juice, salmon, tuna, tomatoes, broccoli and red meat for starters and keep things colourful.

Prioritise sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in regulating the immune system, helping it to function effectively.

That’s because during sleep, your body produces and releases cytokines, a type of protein that helps to fight off illness, inflammation and stress.

Cytokines also promote the growth and activity of immune cells, such as T cells, which help to recognise and destroy pathogens.

Get familiar with astragalus

Astragalus is an Asian plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. In Chinese, it’s called huang qi which means “yellow life energy”.

It is traditionally used to improve immune system defences and help reduce the frequency of common colds in Chinese medicine, as well as to increase vitality and to help the body cope with stress.

Astragalus is also traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to stimulate healthy immune system responses and to support the immune system in fighting illnesses.

Fusion Astra 8 tablets contain not only astragalus and seven other Chinese herbs, but also reishi mushroom, which improves immunity and relieves tiredness, based on traditional use in Chinese medicine.

We say A+ for astragalus and here’s to a happy, healthy immune system during the chillier months.

* This post is brought to you by Fusion Astra 8 60 tablets. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.