It\u2019s that time of year when the colder season starts rolling in. And with it, comes the notorious flu season. Last year, the flu affected more than 15,000 individuals, with over 5% of Canada’s population experiencing this seasonal illness annually. You never know if it\u2019ll be you, so it\u2019s better to stay warm, safe and take measures to avoid the flu completely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a good idea to start strengthening your immune system as we settle into the winter season. Everything from what you eat, what you wear, and how you sleep, play a factor in your body\u2019s strength and powers. People typically start to prepare medications or start getting vaccinated. However, recently, a new defense has become a prominent opponent in the battle with the seasonal flu; CBD. Learn more below! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The immune system is our body\u2019s frontline of defense. Its primary role is to protect us from invaders that pose a threat to our bodies, such as bacteria and viruses, including the flu. When the flu virus infiltrates our bodies, the immune system leaps into action, and mobilizes an army of cells, antibodies, and other defenses to combat the intruder. Specifically, a type of white blood cells called macrophage, are the ones to first identify the intruders in your body. The immune system then prepares for battle by sending out a chemical messenger called cytokines, which coordinates the plan, and tells the body the battle plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a result of the battle that is occurring inside your body, symptoms such as coughing, a runny nose, fever, and fatigue are often accompanied. That\u2019s why it\u2019s ever more important during this time to support your body by providing it with enough nutrients, comfort, and medication, if needed, for the battle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Releasing cytokines is an essential part in the battle plan. Cytokines initiates an inflammatory response as a protective measure against the flu virus. However, often, when producing more immune cells, there can also be an overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are the root cause of your flu symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, aches etc.\u2026). So, now along with the flu, your body is extra inflamed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recently, CBD has gained popularity in the healthcare and wellness industry and is mostly known as a suppressor for pain and aches. CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in our bodies, which acts as a regulating system for our sleep, mood, immune system, cardiovascular system, among others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n