How to Boost Your Immune System (Especially During Back-to-School & Flu Season)

As school ramps up and schedules get busier, I always see a wave of people coming in feeling run down. Germs are everywhere this time of year—not just in classrooms, but at work, in grocery stores, gyms, and everywhere in between. The good news? There are real, simple ways you can support your immune system naturally.

Most of the problems I see in the clinic tend to build slowly and become bigger issues later. The immune system is no different—so this is a great time to catch up and give your body the support it needs.

Here are a few foundational things you can start doing right now:

1. Reduce Stress to Help Your Body Recover Better

Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it has a direct impact on your immune system. When you’re constantly in “go mode,” your body stays in a state of low-level inflammation, which can lower your immune response.

How to support your body:

• Take regular movement breaks during the day

• Step away from screens when possible

• Build in simple ways to decompress (walks, deep breathing, stretching, quiet time)

• Chiropractic care can help regulate your nervous system and reduce the effects of chronic stress

  
  

2. Prioritize Consistent, Quality Sleep

Sleep is when your body does most of its healing and immune regulation. Missing even just a few hours a night can reduce your body’s ability to fight off illness.

Tips for better sleep:

• Try to keep a consistent bedtime—even on weekends

• Avoid screens and bright lights 30–60 minutes before bed

• Keep your room cool and quiet

• If pain or tension is making it hard to sleep, chiropractic adjustments can help your body relax more naturally

  
  

3. Support Your Immune System with Key Nutrients

You don’t need a cabinet full of supplements, but some basic immune support goes a long way this time of year.

What I often recommend:

• Vitamin D3 (especially as we head into fall and winter)

• Vitamin C

• Zinc

• Probiotics to support gut health, which plays a huge role in immune function

• Stay well-hydrated and fuel your body with whole foods whenever you can

  
  

4. Stay Consistent With the Basics

Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference:

• Wash your hands frequently

• Avoid touching your face

• Sanitize surfaces at home, work, and in the car

• Encourage your kids to do the same (especially after school or sports)

  
  

5. Keep Your Body in Balance with Regular Chiropractic Care

Your spine and nervous system play a direct role in how your body responds to stress, recovers from fatigue, and fights off illness. When your nervous system is functioning well, your immune system can respond better.

Many of my patients start with care for pain or tension, but stay because of how much better they feel overall—including fewer sick days, better sleep, and more energy.

Let’s Get Ahead of It

You don’t have to wait until you’re feeling worn down or fighting something off to take action. A preventative approach—especially as we head into the colder months—can make a big difference in how your body holds up through flu season.

👉 Book a free consultation today if you’d like to see how chiropractic care can support your immune health and overall well-being.

Let’s catch up before it becomes a problem—then keep up together.

Stay well,

Dr. Chad