Your immune system has one primary role: to protect you. It neutralizes harmful substances you encounter in the environment, like viruses and bacteria. Then, it mounts an attack to remove them from your body. Stay healthy by keeping your immune system strong through the upcoming cold and flu season with these tips from Thorne.

Show Your Gut Bugs Some Love
Home to about 70 percent of your body’s immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract plays a key role in your immune system’s health. Promote gut health by boosting the presence of beneficial bacteria and the foods they thrive on. Probiotics are live bacteria with positive health benefits. You can find them in yogurt and other fermented foods like certain cheeses, kefir, kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut. Get prebiotics, food for beneficial bacteria, by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Get Moving
Exercise provides metabolic benefits, relieves stress and boosts musculoskeletal strength. But there’s another reason to get moving. Research suggests exercise also improves the immune system’s ability to identify viruses and other invaders. Regular workouts help your body circulate white blood cells and anti-inflammatory substances. This keeps your immune system functioning effectively.

Get Your ZZZ's
Aim for at least six to eight hours of quality sleep per night. Lack of sleep can hinder your immune system’s ability to protect your body from outside invaders. Getting adequate sleep supports immune function by ensuring enough immune cells are circulating in your body to help get rid of harmful microbes.

Don’t Forget About Hand Hygiene
Hand transition causes many infections. That’s why handwashing is one of the simplest ways to prevent the spread of illness. Keep germs at bay by washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. When a sink isn’t available, use hand sanitizer as a fallback. 

Reduce your risk of sickness this cold and flu season by taking simple steps to support your immune system health.