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It’s May already – where has the year gone? The mornings are getting cooler, the footy’s back on, and the craving for pumpkin soup or a classic lamb roast is rising. But as the seasons shift, so too should our health habits-especially when it comes to boosting our immune system.
If you’re over 50, your immune system naturally slows down a little. That doesn’t particularly mean you’ll be sneezing all winter-but it does mean that a little extra care is needed. With the federal election looming, perhaps you’re beginning to think about what matters to you. Why not put your health at the top of that list too?
Here’s your top autumn tips to boosting your immunity naturally.
Your body needs a vast variety of nutrients to keep your defences strong. Colourful fruit and vegetables-think carrots, pumpkin, capsicum, citrus, and leafy greens are packed with antioxidants, vitamin A, C and E. With the cooler weather creeping in, our bodies thrive on warmer meals as it requires less energy to digest them.
Try this: Instead of reaching for another cheese toastie, bulk up your meals with roasted veg and hearty soups. Check out these vegan soups by Rainbow Plant Life!
Make the most of this Aussie Autumn. It’s the perfect time to load up on garlic, ginger, mushrooms, sweet potato and oranges. Try making a warming garlic and ginger broth or add mushrooms to your Sunday roast for an immune-supporting side dish. If you’re looking for immune system support for seniors, this is especially for you.
During autumn and winter, our natural circadian rhythm can shift due to shorter daylight hours. Melatonin (our sleep hormone) tends to rise earlier, making us feel sleepier sooner. If were not in sync with this rhythm (late-night screens and bright lights), it can disrupt sleep quality and immune function. Rest is where your body completes its repair work, so try to aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
You may not feel as thirsty in cooler weather, but did you know that staying hydrated keeps your mucus membranes (nose, throat, lungs) moist? This means our bodies become better at flushing our germs. Whilst it is easy to reach for a hot tea or coffee, try opting for more water throughout your day.
As we age, some of use begin to experience immune complications or frustrations. That’s simply another reason as to why it’s important to eat with the seasons and adjust our routine to compliment the weather shifts. With these seasonal tweaks you can stay healthy, strong and ready for everything May has in store (including your trip to the voting booth).
Don’t forget to warm up properly before exercising! It may begin to take a little longer with the cooler conditions, but the correct warm up will save you from injury.
Ready to boost your health this autumn? Join our specialised fitness classes for over 50s and thrive this season!
Heath Jones is the founder of Active & Ageless and has over 20 years’ experience in the Health & Wellness space.
He holds the following qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing
Postgraduate in Exercise Science
Diploma of OHS
Cert 3 & 4 Fitness
Cert 4 Training & Assessment
Older Adults trainer
