Andover MN Chiropractor Explains Flu Season or Stress Season

Well, it's that time of year again. The days are getting shorter, the temperature is getting colder, the leaves are falling off the trees…and you can't go anywhere without someone asking you if you've gotten your flu shot! Apparently we have two seasons in Andover, MN: Summer and Flu. Yes, we see more people sniffling and coughing this time of year. But is it truly due to a lack of flu shot supplies??

The Secret Behind Flu Season in Andover MN

Here's a little secret to squash the "flu season" myth. The flu virus is all around us at all times throughout the entire year. So why do we only tend to get the flu around this time of year? Is it because the flu virus gets stronger? Or is it because our immune systems get weaker?

Let's take a look at what happens this time of year. Somewhere during October, we start hibernating. We exchange outdoor activity for a seat on the couch. Of course all the best TV shows are on during the fall, so that helps. At the end of October we celebrate Halloween by showering society with sugary treats. After Halloween we have to start preparing for Thanksgiving-who's making what and where are we eating it? This will be the first of TWO major insulin-induced comas for the holiday season! When we wake up from that, it's time to start shopping for everyone on our Christmas list. Oh, and let's make sure we get all new decorations because last year's stuff is so outdated. During Christmas weekend, it's over the river and through the woods to everyone's house we go for more insulin-induced comas. After we take a week off from the insanity, we celebrate with a big 'ol New Year's Eve Party for which we'll need another few days to recover.

And that's just our personal lives!! At work, the end of the year means DEADLINES and your boss hounding you to get your projects done. In order to get it all done, you start taking work home with you. Of course, your spouse LOVES that. And is it just me, or is it really depressing to drive to AND from work IN THE DARK!

Stress and The Flu

Guess what all this excess stress does to your body. It activates your fight or flight response, which burns out your nervous system and alters body chemistry. This ultimately results in a weakened immune system. And when your immune system is weak, you are more susceptible to that pesky little flu virus.

Here's how to keep your immune system strong during Stress Season: eat your fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, get adequate sleep, exercise at least four times per week, and be absolutely certain to maintain a clear nervous system with regular chiropractic adjustments.