Welcome back to Yerger Science News! As the temperature drops and the sniffles return this week, we discuss new scientific tips for staying healthy this autumn.
In this week's article, by Allison Pearce Stevens of ScienceNews.org, we highlight how avoiding getting ill is not just a simple matter of avoiding germs, you must also support your immune system.
"When we hear about viruses and bacteria, we may think of runny noses and coughs. But the battleground for our immune system is not just in the nose and lungs. In fact, a whopping 80 percent of immune cells live in the gut. That’s not surprising, since it needs to be ready to spot germs every time we eat or drink."
Recent studies of students who have contracted COVID-19 have shown that they tend to possess abnormal gut bacteria, the naturally occurring bacteria that call our insides home. To keep your gut bacteria (also called your microbiome) healthy, steer clear of processed foods and instead eat more fruits and vegetables as part of your usual diet. This can not only help you avoid getting ill but can also improve your mental health and mood by consuming more essential nutrients, such as Vitamin D and C. Also, regular exercise and outdoor activities can greatly help your gut microbiome's health, so take advantage of the cooler weather and get active this week!
If you would like to see more information on this topic, please visit https://www.snexplores.org/article/how-to-boost-your-immune-system