Sick of being sick? Here’s 3 ways to boost your immune system.

Feb 26

It's that time of year again... the season of sniffles, coughs, and no sleep. But don't worry, acupuncture is here to help!

This ancient practice, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been used for centuries to not only treat illness but also to promote overall wellness and prevent disease. This means that you don’t have to wait. You can be proactive about your immunity and support yourself through the season of illness!

1: Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points along the body. These points lie on meridians, our body’s natural energy channels, and help to stimulate Qi. When our Qi, the body’s natural energy source, is blocked, it often results in pain or illness. By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can help to:

Strengthen Wei Qi: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wei Qi is your body's first line of defense against pathogens. Acupuncture helps protect this energy, making it harder for bugs to infest our bodies.
Reduce Stress: Stress is known to wreak havoc on our immune system. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones, allowing your immune system to function optimally. This can also play an important role in supporting sleep which is key to staying healthy.
Decrease Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can weaken your immune response. Acupuncture helps to regulate the inflammatory response, keeping your system balanced.
Improve Circulation: Good blood flow is essential for delivering immune cells throughout the body. Acupuncture helps to improve circulation, ensuring that your defenses are where they need to be.

What the Research Says

Modern research is catching up. Studies have shown that acupuncture can:

Increase the body’s natural infection fighters
Enhance the activity of cells that fight viruses
Control signaling molecules involved in the immune response

Acupuncture can be especially helpful if you’re already feeling under the weather. It can help with symptoms like:

· Congestion: helping to clear sinuses and improve breathing

· Sore throat: by reducing inflammation and pain in your throat

· Body aches: easing aches and pains associated with sickness including headaches

2: Diet

Nutrition also plays a big role in supporting immune health, especially during cold and flu season. Here are a few key recommendations:

Warm Foods: Eating cooked, warming foods like soups or stews, steamed vegetables, and nuts. Avoid cold and raw foods, which can dampen digestion and weaken immunity.
Immune-Boosting Foods: Incorporate foods known for their immune-enhancing properties, such as garlic, ginger, and bone broth.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens are packed with vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports immune function.

Foods to Limit:

Sugar: Sugar can suppress immune function, so it's best to limit your intake, especially when you're feeling under the weather.
Dairy: Dairy products can be mucus-producing and may contribute to congestion.
Processed Foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and additives that can weaken immunity.

3: Sleep and Exercise

Sleep and exercise are vital pillars of immune health. Here's why:

Restorative Sleep: Adequate sleep allows your body to repair and rejuvenate, strengthening your immune defenses. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. To enhance sleep quality, establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimize your sleep environment.
Moderate Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise enhances circulation, boosts lymphatic flow (which helps to remove toxins), and reduces stress—all of which support immune function. However, excessive, or intense exercise can deplete your energy and weaken immunity. Choose activities you enjoy, like brisk walking or yoga and listen to your body.

Ready to Give Your Immune System a Tune-Up?

If you're looking for a natural and effective way to support your immune system, acupuncture is a fantastic option. Contact our clinic today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how acupuncture can help you stay healthy and resilient all year round.