Learn the evidence on which diet, lifestyle, supplements (& more) can best support your immune system into the fall/winter
Fall is a season of change. Kids head back to school & are constantly being exposed to germs. As the days get shorter and the air gets cooler, our immune systems often need extra support to fend off seasonal illnesses. Whether it’s the common cold, flu, or simply feeling run down, adopting healthy habits can help protect you.
But what’s the evidence say about why?
The increase in colds and flu during the fall can be attributed to several interrelated factors, primarily linked to environmental changes & their effects on human health. As temperatures drop & weather becomes more variable, the conditions become favourable for the transmission of respiratory viruses.
Environmental Factors
Temperature Variability: Research indicates that rapid weather variability (RWV) in late autumn correlates with increased flu outbreaks in winter. This variability can weaken immune responses, particularly in vulnerable populations (Zinke 2020).
Cold Temperatures
Cold weather has been shown to negatively impact immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections. A steep drop in temperature can significantly increase the risk of influenza transmission (Matsuki et al. 2023).
Behavioral Changes
Indoor Crowding: As temperatures fall, people tend to congregate indoors, facilitating the spread of airborne viruses. This behavior is particularly pronounced in densely populated areas (Zinke 2020)(Keilman 2019).
While these factors contribute to the rise in respiratory infections, it is also important to consider that not all individuals experience severe symptoms, and many cases can be managed effectively with vaccinations and appropriate treatments (Keilman 2019)(Farrer 2011).
