Physician offers 8 simple steps to bolster a strong immune system

As winter comes to a close, the threat of cold and flu season still looms large, putting our immune systems at risk. Staying healthy is a combination of simple practices, according to Dr. Roger Seheult, a critical care physician and pulmonologist. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, he shared his insights on how to boost the immune system even as the seasons change.

Seheult introduced an acronym to help remember key immune-boosting methods: NEWSTART. This acronym stands for Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunlight, Temperance, Air, Rest, and Trust. These practices are not only beneficial for avoiding the flu, but also for living a long and healthy life free from chronic diseases.

Starting with Nutrition, Seheult emphasized the importance of following a plant-based diet low in processed foods to maintain a healthy gut and proper intake of vitamins and nutrients. Exercise, according to Seheult, does not have to be strenuous. Simple activities like walking or light jogging can have significant benefits for overall health.

Water plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, not just through drinking it, but also through exposure to hydrotherapies like steam saunas. Sunlight exposure, even for just 15 to 20 minutes a day, can regulate sleep, boost mood, and have lasting effects on metabolism.

Practicing Temperance, or moderation in behaviors like drinking alcohol, can help support the immune system by avoiding toxins. Getting fresh Air by spending time outdoors and opening windows in the home can help reduce toxin buildup. Rest, with seven to eight hours of sleep per night, is essential for overall health and well-being.

Finally, Trust in a supportive community or religious faith can also boost health from within. Taking time to disconnect from responsibilities and stress can reduce cortisol levels and benefit the immune system.

Incorporating these simple practices into your daily routine can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy even as cold and flu season continues. By following the NEWSTART acronym, you can take proactive steps to support your immune system and live a long, healthy life.