Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and while it's a time to gather with family, share meals, and reflect on what we're grateful for, it also marks the start of cold and flu season. With so many people traveling, gathering indoors, and sharing food, ensuring your immune system is ready to fend off seasonal viruses is essential. Fortunately, there are practical ways to strengthen your immune defenses and stay healthy throughout the holiday season.

In this blog, we'll share five practical ways to boost your immune system before Thanksgiving so you can enjoy the holiday festivities without worry. If you feel under the weather, AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts is here to help with walk-in care and flu shots to protect you.

1. Get Your Flu Shot Early

Getting a flu shot is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself during the holiday season. The flu is highly contagious and spreads quickly during indoor gatherings like Thanksgiving dinners. It can take up to two weeks for the vaccine to build complete immunity, so the sooner you get vaccinated, the better protected you'll be by the time Thanksgiving arrives.

• Where to Get Vaccinated: AFC Urgent Care offers walk-in flu shots at all its Massachusetts locations. There's no need to schedule an appointment—just walk in at a time that works for you.
• Bonus: Getting your flu shot not only protects you but also helps protect family members who may be more vulnerable, such as infants, older people, or those

with chronic conditions.

2. Prioritize Quality Sleep

A good night's sleep is one of the most powerful tools for supporting your immune system. Studies show that people who don't get enough sleep are more susceptible to viruses, including the common cold and flu. When you sleep, your body produces cytokines, proteins that help fight infections and inflammation.

• Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Tips for Better Sleep: Create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens an hour before bed, and keep your bedroom cool and dark.
• Watch for Signs of Fatigue: If you're struggling to sleep well and feel rundown, visit AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts to rule out any underlying conditions.

3. Load Up on Immune-Boosting Foods

Your diet plays a critical role in supporting your immune health. Before Thanksgiving, focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that provide the vitamins and minerals your immune system needs to function correctly.

Superfoods to Incorporate:

• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are packed with vitamin C, which helps stimulate the production of white blood cells.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale contain antioxidants and beta-carotene, which support immune function.
• Yogurt and Probiotics: Foods rich in probiotics help maintain a healthy gut closely linked to immune health.
• Garlic and Ginger: Both have natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Pro Tip: Incorporate these foods into your meals before Thanksgiving to ensure your body is well-prepared to avoid seasonal viruses. Need more personalized advice? Stop by AFC Urgent Care for dietary tips tailored to your health.

4. Stay Active, But Don't Overdo It

Moderate exercise is an excellent way to keep your immune system strong. Physical activity improves circulation, helping immune cells move more efficiently throughout your body. It can also reduce stress, which is known to weaken immune defenses.

• Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like brisk walking, yoga, or cycling are great choices.
• Avoid Overtraining: While regular exercise is good for your immune system, excessive exercise can have the opposite effect, leaving your body more vulnerable to illness.
• Post-Workout Hydration: After exercising, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help flush out toxins.

If you're under the weather or unsure about exercising, visit AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts for a quick check-up to ensure you're in good shape for physical activity.

5. Manage Stress to Support Your Immune System

The holiday season can be stressful, affecting your immune system. When stressed, your body produces higher cortisol levels, a hormone that can suppress immune function when it remains elevated for too long. Reducing stress before the holiday rush can help keep your immune system in top shape.

Tips for Managing Stress Before Thanksgiving:

• Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: Just 10 minutes a day of deep breathing exercises or meditation can lower cortisol levels.
• Take Breaks: Schedule downtime for yourself, even if just a short walk outdoors.
• Connect with Loved Ones: Social support is crucial in managing stress and boosting mood.
• Get Help When Needed: If you're overwhelmed or run down, stop by AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts to speak with a healthcare provider about stress management tips and preventive care.

Bonus Tip: Avoid Getting Sick During Holiday Travel

If you'll be traveling to visit family for Thanksgiving, take a few extra precautions to stay healthy:

• Sanitize Frequently: Keep hand sanitizer handy and use it regularly, especially after touching surfaces in public spaces.
• Wear a Mask in Crowded Areas: Airports, bus terminals, and crowded indoor spaces can increase your risk of exposure to respiratory viruses.
• Stay Hydrated During Travel: Air travel can dehydrate you, weakening your immune system. Drink water throughout your journey to stay hydrated.

AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts: Here to Support Your Health

Whether you need a flu shot, advice on boosting your immune system, or care for a cold or flu, AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts is here to help. With multiple locations across the state and walk-in services, we make it easy to get the care you need when you need it.

• Extended Hours: We're open evenings and weekends to fit your schedule.
• No Appointment Necessary: Walk in for a flu shot, check-up, or any other service.
• Comprehensive Care: We have you covered, from preventive care to treatment for seasonal illnesses.

This Thanksgiving, give yourself the gift of good health by taking steps to boost your immune system ahead of time. You'll be well-prepared to enjoy the holiday season with a flu shot, healthy eating, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management. And remember—if you do start to feel unwell, AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts is just a walk-in away. Visit us at any of our Massachusetts locations today to stay healthy and ready for the holidays.