Falling ill while traveling can throw a wrench in your plans. One of the main reasons for getting sick is low humidity on planes, which can cause your nose and throat to dry up and therefore hinder your body from fighting off illnesses. Traveling can also be stressful, which can wreak havoc on your immune system. The good news is that there are ways to support your immune health while on your next vacation.
The average humidity on a plane is between 15% and 20%, as opposed to the typical indoor humidity of 30% to 65%. Low humidity in combination with not being able to take liquids through airport security can further contribute to dehydration. Therefore, it's crucial that you drink as many liquids as you can before, during and after your flight.
Because alcohol, coffee and soft drinks are dehydrating, it's best to stick to water, herbal tea or fruit juice. This doesn't mean that you can't enjoy a glass of wine on the plane, but just don't go overboard. You can also eat fruits and vegetables, which release water into the body as the body digests them. Fruits and vegetables with high water content include:
While you may be tempted to eat unhealthy foods on your vacation, they can disrupt your immune and digestive systems. Eating healthy, well-balanced meals packed with fruits, vegetables, fiber and protein can keep your body healthy throughout the duration of your trip. Be sure to pack a few nutritious snacks with you so you won't be tempted to eat unhealthy foods while waiting in line at the airport.
If you're having trouble eating a healthy diet, supplements can be a great addition to your diet. Looking up USANA Health Sciences products can help you find health-friendly snacks, shakes and supplements for your next vacation. Some of the most common supplements that have been shown to support the immune system include:
Going on vacation usually equates to spending more time outdoors, which is why it's essential to protect your skin against the sun. Dermatologists recommend using physical sunscreen instead of chemical sunscreen because it sits atop the skin and reflects both UVA and UVB rays upon application. In addition, physical sunscreens aren't as likely to clog pores and won't degrade once hit by the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to adequately shield your skin against sunburn and lower your risk of skin cancer.
Did you know that the number of white blood cells in your body increases while you sleep? Considering that white blood cells are responsible for protecting you against illness, you can see why getting a good night's sleep is essential for a strong immune system. In fact, studies have demonstrated that people who don't get enough sleep are more likely to fall ill after being exposed to a virus. Try to aim for seven to eight hours of sleep a night for a healthy and strong immune system.
One of the most effective and fun ways to strengthen your immune system is to exercise. Not only can exercising keep you physically healthy, but it can also boost your mood and self-esteem. What better time to stay active than on vacation? From going on a guided walking tour to playing beach volleyball, there are plenty of opportunities to get your body moving on vacation.
Vacation can be a busy time, with all the new places to explore and the sights to see. Therefore, you want to make sure that your immune system is healthy and strong so that you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Following these five tips can help you support and regualte your health while traveling.