Winter is here and so are the problems that come along with the cold season. Most of us end up sneezing and coughing throughout the season due to weak immune systems. Let’s find out 5 things you can do to increase your immunity this winter season.

Winter is a season where all you want to do is cozy up with the blanket and layer up. However, if you don’t have a strong immune system, even 5 layers of clothing are not going to be of much help. Something or the other will trigger your system with viral infections.

Health Shots reached out to Arpita B. Acharya, Clinical Nutritionist, Diabetes Educator and Sports Nutrition at Max Multi Speciality Center. She told us 5 things one can do to boost their immunity power. Let’s take a look at them!

How to increase your immunity?

Here are a few ways that can rev up your immunity and keep infections at bay:

1. Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is not something for the summer season, you need to drink plenty of water in winter too, especially because the air is so dry. Water is responsible for most of the healthy functioning of our body. It helps boost immunity, keep your skin and hair healthy and also keeps your energy levels up. “Try to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. In addition to water, you can also drink homemade fruit juice, herbal tea, or broth,” says Acharya.

2. Eat healthy

As basic as this sounds, it is a very important point. What you eat is what you are. If you want a healthy immune system, eating a diet full of vitamins and minerals is necessary. Including fruits rich in vitamins A, C and B like beets, squash, oranges, etc. will be of huge help. Also, include vegetables rich in iron like sweet potatoes, broccoli and leafy green vegetables.

3. Sleep well

Lack of sleep not only increases stress and lack of concentration, but it also affects your immune system negatively. Getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep is very important to allow your body to rest and keep your immunity levels high.

4. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is a great way to increase immunity because it helps your body produce immunity-boosting hormones. “When your body sweats while exercising, it helps flush out the toxins from your body. This also helps your body to fight off any germs,” explains Acharya. On average, a person should get 30 minutes of exercise per day.

5. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are oils made from the extracts of certain fruits and flowers and have an aromatic smell. They are used to treat various problems like headaches and stress. Acharya says that “they can be a great way to boost immunity during the winter, so try diffusing immunity-boosting essential oils like lemon, peppermint, or eucalyptus in your home.”

So, follow these steps to increase immunity to enjoy the winter season to the fullest!