[HELP!] It’s cold, flu, COVID, and RSV season

By now, we’re well into cold, flu, and COVID season.

But are you familiar with RSV?

Yep, the same respiratory virus that most folks associate with newborn babies is infecting older adults at an alarming rate.

In fact, it’s the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infections—leading to hospitalization and sometimes even death among those who are most vulnerable.

Here’s how you can tackle ALL of these respiratory threats as the temps continue to drop and the viruses continue to thrive…

Survey says…

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we should be most concerned over COVID-19, flu, and RSV rates, otherwise known as the “tripledemic.”

And, of course, experts state the best way to protect yourself from the winter surge is through vaccination. They say NOW is the time to act, especially for seniors and anyone who is immunocompromised.

That’s all well and good—we each have our own views and stances on vaccination—but what about a sensible lifestyle approach that EVERYONE can adopt RIGHT AWAY? Why does that always go by the wayside?

After all, the return of colder weather means more indoor activity for all of us. Inevitably, this means we’ll be putting our immune systems to the test, through increased exposure to germs.

So, yes, we better be prepared.

But vaccination doesn’t have to be the be-all-end-all form of protection…

Other forms of protection

I always encourage you to take precautionary steps against the cold, flu, coronavirus, and even RSV.

And boosting your immunity with four superstar supplements tops that list:

1. Vitamin D. This nutrient is KEY to a strong immune system. I recommend 250 mcg (10,000 IU) daily, especially in the winter months when sunlight decreases.
2. BRM-4BioBran. This is also known as Rice Bran Arabinoxylan Concentrate (RBAC) and it’s one of my favorite supplements for immune support. I recommend 1,000 mg daily.
3. Vitamin C. This tried-and-true supplement remains a rock star, especially for immune health. I recommend 1,000 mg, three times daily.
4. Probiotics. As we discussed yesterday, good health starts in the gut. So, look for a product to support bacterial diversity with prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Then, take it daily, as directed. (Dr. Ohhira’s probiotics checks all boxes.)

In addition, remaining physically active will provide extra support.

In fact, research shows moderate-intensity exercise helps increase the circulation of immune cells in your body. This response preps your body for viral invasions—helping your immune system to detect such threats earlier.

Research has linked aerobic exercise to the best protection. But as I always say, anything is better than nothing.

And together, smart supplementation and regular movement WILL help your immune system work like a well-oiled machine.

Sources:

“Tripledemic? What CDC Recommends for COVID, Flu, and RSV.” WebMD, 10/5/2023. (webmd.com/lung/news/20231005/what-cdc-recommends-for-possible-tripledemic-this-fall)

“Does Exercise Boost Immunity?” Healthline, 03/09/2022. (healthline.com/nutrition/does-exercise-boost-immune-system)