Diabetes is a disease that prevents your body from properly absorbing and using glucose. But did you know that this can also impair your immune system as well?
That’s right.
Diabetes causes a whole host of problems throughout the body, inflammation being the greatest detriment. Inflammation works its way down to your blood vessels, damaging your tissues from the inside out. Needless to say, your immune system becomes compromised and leaves you vulnerable to the many viruses floating around this Fall.
So what should you do? Protect yourself! Here are five ways to boost your immune system this Fall season:
1. Get some sleep.
When we are sleep deprived our body produces fewer T-cells. These T-cells are what fight off foreign viruses and bugs. When we have fewer of them, we become more vulnerable to the cold or flu.
Healthy sleep habits also support your body in glucose management. The more sleep that you have, the better your body can manage its blood glucose levels. So why not get those precious hours of sleep for your best health?
2. Get a flu shot.
If you’re already susceptible to getting sick, then go get the flu shot! It’s really simple, widely available, and covered by most insurance plans. Not sure if you are one of the people that needs a flu shot? These people are more susceptible to the flu and should get their vaccine this season:
Children (over 6 months)- People over the age of 50
- Pregnant women
- People with compromised immune systems (including people with diabetes)
- People with extreme obesity
- Caregivers
Children (over 6 months)3. Wash your hands.
This sounds simple but it is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of disease. Wash your hands when you use the restroom, but also when you are in public places. Wash your hands before eating or preparing food, as well as during and after social events. Germs are everywhere so it is important to keep them off of your hands!
4. Eat your vitamins.
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamin C and zinc, both of which are superheroes against the cold and flu. Rather than taking vitamins, which are mostly passed through your urine, eat your raw fruits and vegetables. You will also get your fill of antioxidants and fiber, which support your body against the damaging effects of diabetes.
5. Carry hand sanitizer.
This seems a bit redundant, but it is super important to keep your hands clean. Your hands come in contact with hundreds of surfaces a day, all of which come in contact with sick strangers. Your hands also come in contact with the food you eat, your face, and everything in your home. Keep your hands clean and when you can’t, sanitize.
Want more information on how to get your diabetes under control?
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[expand title=”References“]
WebMD. URL Link. URL Link #2. Retrieved October 24, 2017.
CDC. URL Link. Retrieved October 24, 2017.
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