Top three immune boosting recommendations to ward off freshers’ flu

Those heading to university this autumn, or returning student’s, might’ve heard of the dreaded freshers’ flu. But don’t let it fool you, it isn’t actually a form of flu.

BetterYou MultiVit Oral Spray

Freshers’ Flu is a combination of physical and psychological factors which target the immune system.

These factors can manifest themselves in several different ways with symptoms including coughing, shivering and feeling tired as well as experiencing a sore throat, headaches and a fever.

So, how do you catch freshers’ flu? One of the best things about university can be meeting lots of new people from all over the country, or even the world, but this is also the perfect breeding ground for multiple viruses.

The social aspect of university also increases the likelihood of overindulgence in both alcohol and junk food, which will affect the amount and quality of sleep achieved – ultimately lowering immune defences.

It’s highly likely that students will come down with a case of freshers’ flu at least once during their time at university, and whilst it isn’t the end of the world, there are ways to help fend off freshers’ flu.

Nutritional Expert, and New Product Development Executive at natural health company BetterYou, Keeley Berry discusses her top three immune boosting recommendations…

1. Get plenty of sleep

As boring as it sounds, getting plenty of rest will help prepare you for the day ahead. A good night’s sleep is like the reset button on your computer, it helps return the body back to its normal state each day. It is important for releasing important hormones, restocking energy stores and stress. Typically, you should aim for 8 plus hours of sleep a night.

Magnesium, a natural relaxant, can help improve sleep quality. The body needs magnesium to maintain a state of complete rest and low levels can lead to restless muscles that keep us awake at night. Try adding BetterYou Magnesium Sleep Lotion to your bedtime routine - simply massage the lotion onto clean, dry skin, up to 30 minutes before sleep.

2. Maintain a healthy diet

It may not be easy to ensure you are consistently eating a healthy diet, and junk food can appear the most convenient option, however try to get your regular fix of fruit and vegetables. These will provide you with important vitamins for all round health and will give your immune system a fighting chance against illnesses.

You can help to plug the nutritional gaps in your diet caused by busy lifestyles, poor diets and the reduced nutrient quality in highly processed foods with a multivitamin supplement. BetterYou’s MultiVit Oral Spray has a robust multi-nutrient formulation containing the full spectrum of B vitamins, including folic acid, combined with A, C, D, K1 and other key minerals that work together to support the immune system.

3. De-stress

Starting a new life away from home and settling into a new routine can increase stress levels, impacting the stability of the immune system. Don’t be afraid to admit that you need some time out and make sure you have regular ‘me’ time, whether it’s exercising or simply switching off your phone, it all contributes to a healthier mind and body.

When the body is under stress the hormone cortisol is produced, this hormone can block our vitamin D receptors and as a result our absorption of this vital vitamin. Vitamin D is crucial for activating immune defences and without sufficient intake, the immune system will not be able to react to fight off infection. Help support your immune system with BetterYou’s DLux3000 Vitamin D Oral Spray.

Finally, enjoy yourself! University life is unforgettable.