Strengthen defenses for the winter

Avoid colds by strengthening the immune system
With the wet and cold weather, the colds are on the rise. "Cold viruses and bacteria are back in high season", according to the AOK release. However, a good immune system can help to cope better with the viruses and bacteria.

The cold germs spread very quickly, for example, in the subway, in the office, at school and in kindergarten, with doorknobs, handles or even computer keyboards true playgrounds of the pathogens form, reports the AOK. Good defenses are the key to avoiding colds. Various measures that strengthen the immune system are therefore recommended by the health insurance company.

Colds can be avoided strengthening the immune system. (Image: Monkey Business / fotolia.com)

Proper nutrition strengthens the immune system
In order to strengthen the immune system, the AOK offers, for example, a change in diet. A varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables provide the body with enough vitamins and trace elements that are crucial for the immune system. In addition, it is advisable to drink enough to keep the mucous membranes moist, especially in dry cold. "One glass of liquid per hour is enough," says the AOK.

Exercise in the fresh air
Also good for the immune system is according to the AOK sufficient exercise in the fresh air. This brings the circulation and the entire organism on tours. The body is "awake, active, the immune system starts," according to the AOK. Even in grubby weather, therefore, the movement outdoors should not be waived. "Dress according to the weather and walk for half an hour every day," recommends the AOK.

Turn off unhealthy lifestyles
Since certain habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption or lack of sleep weaken the immune system, these things should be avoided, the AOK continues. Also, the general risk of infection can be significantly reduced by preventive hygiene. Thus, regular hand washing has been proven to protect against infection, as cold and flu viruses are also "transmitted by smear infection, for example, by a handshake after sneezing at-hand or over contaminated surfaces," explains the AOK. In addition, cold viruses are distributed with each Sneezer in fine droplets in the air, which is why dense crowds in confined spaces increase the risk of infection, reports the health insurance.

Preparations to increase the immune system superfluous
Although numerous anti-body-defatting drugs are available without a prescription, for healthy people these are superfluous, according to the AOK. Several studies in recent years have shown that for most people the above measures are the best way to help prevent colds. (Fp)