Beat The Cold Season Blues: Expert Immunity Tips From Heather Morrow

As the New Year kicks into full swing, staying healthy becomes a top priority, especially with increased exposure to viruses at work, school, and beyond. Heather Morrow, Executive Director of Medical Affairs at Bausch + Lomb, shares her expert advice on building a strong immune system—from boosting gut health to managing stress. In this Q&A, Heather offers practical steps and highlights the benefits of products like COLD-FX® to help you stay ahead of cold and flu season. Read on for tips to keep you feeling your best this winter! —Vita Daily

Why is it so important to prioritize immune health during the winter months when exposure to viruses is higher?

In Canada, cold and flu season peaks yearly from December to February.  Prioritizing immune health helps reduce the likelihood of catching a cold or flu, so you can continue enjoying what you love.

How does gut health play a role in supporting the immune system, and what are your top dietary recommendations for boosting gut health?

Gut health supports the immune system by regulating the gut microbiota, which helps control immune responses.Including probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented vegetables in your diet boosts gut health.

What tips do you have for people who struggle to maintain hydration during the colder months?

Drink 1/2–1 cup of fluid every hour you’re awake. You can try drinking water, hot tea, broth, or electrolyte-rich beverages. Also try adding fruit slices to water for flavour.

Sleep is often overlooked as part of immunity—what are some practical steps people can take to improve the quality of their sleep?

• Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Create a routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
• Avoid electronics: Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed.

Can you explain the science behind COLD-FX® Daily Support and how it helps boost the immune system when taken consistently?

COLD-FX® Daily Support is a natural health product that contains a proprietary, naturally sourced extract from North American ginseng, CVT-E002®, which is designed to help reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of cold and flu symptoms by boosting the immunesystem. COLD-FX® Daily Support helps reduce the frequency of cold and flu symptoms when taken daily.

For those experiencing early cold symptoms, how does COLD-FX® First Signs differ, and how does it help relieve symptoms?

If you’re already experiencing symptoms, taking a natural health product, like COLD-FX® First Signs may support your immune system and help you recover more quickly. With ingredients like zinc and echinacea, it could help reduce the severity and duration of cold or flu symptoms, potentially making you feel better sooner.

What are your thoughts on the relationship between sugar, stress, and immunity? Are there specific stress-relief techniques you recommend?

Too much sugar can weaken your immune system, while chronic stress can suppress it. Practicing stress-relieving techniques like deep breathing or yoga may help you to stay balanced and boost immunity.

Hand hygiene is a well-known preventative measure. Are there any lesser-known hygiene tips or practices that people should adopt?

With so many germs circulating in cold and flu season, it’s essential to continue practicing good hygiene habits. Regular handwashing, using tissues or elbows to cover coughs and sneezes, can make a significant difference in reducing exposure to harmful viruses.

For families with children returning to school, what proactive steps can parents take to minimize illness in the household?

• Wash your hands regularly for about 20 seconds and dry your hands thoroughly.
• Try not to touch your face.
• Regularly disinfect commonly touched spaces (i.e.: kitchen table, toys, electronics).

As we move into 2025, what are your top three wellness goals or immune-boosting habits that everyone should consider incorporating into their daily routine?

• While all these tips are important, the top three immune boosting habits everyone should consider incorporating into their daily routine are:
• Stay hydrated.
• Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
• Boost your immune system daily with COLD-FX® Daily Support.

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