Fill up on vitamin D: your summer health boost
During your holidays, you've had your fill of sunshine, and with it, precious vitamin D. This "sunshine vitamin" plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of your immune system. It’s especially helpful in allowing your immune cells to beat off infections and reduces the risk of respiratory infections.
Just take Marie, an executive with a Luxembourg bank, who’s just back from two weeks in Greece. Her tanned complexion tells you that she spent her time basking in the Mediterranean sunshine. Without knowing it, she has built up precious reserves of vitamin D, which will help her get through the first few months of autumn with greater resistance to seasonal viruses.
But be warned: these reserves are not endless. From September onwards, we recommend that you maintain a sufficient intake of vitamin D, either through your diet (oily fish, eggs, mushrooms) or in the form of tablets which can be prescribed by your GP.
When you wind down during your holidays, you are actually building up your health reserves. The restorative sleep and absence of stress caused by the mental load have allowed your body to regenerate in depth. Your immune cells have a chance to renew themselves and your natural defences are strengthened.
To draw on this new-found sense of well-being, here are a few simple but effective tips to follow:
Keep to a regular sleep pattern
Even if going back to work means a change of schedule, try to maintain a regular sleep cycle. Seven to eight hours a night are still recommended if you want to get the most out of your immune system.
Maintain a balanced diet
Fill up on foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that fuel your immune system.
Make physical activity part of your routine
Long walks on the beach or mountain hikes have stimulated your blood circulation and enhanced your cardiovascular system. Regular physical activity, even in moderation, helps maintain a high-performance immune system.
You can simply incorporate this into your daily routine by walking to work or getting off a stop before the bus or tram - these are habits that will do you a world of good.
Manage the back to work stress
The return to reality can sometimes be brutal. Your e-mail inbox is full, you've got meetings to catch up on, you're always on the go... Chronic stress is the number one enemy of your immune system. It weakens your natural resistance and makes you more vulnerable to infections.
Take the example of Thomas, an IT consultant, who got back from his holiday in Spain only to be greeted with three urgent projects. Within a few days, he came down with a persistent cold and felt tired for no reason. Weakened by the stress of his return journey, his immune system was unable to fend off the first autumn viruses.
To avoid the same fate, allow yourself a "gradual re-entry":
- Plan your return a few days before you go back to work
- Set priorities to avoid overload
- Allow yourself some time out, however short
- Try out some relaxation or meditation techniques
When prevention is not enough: the importance of the right health cover
Despite all your efforts to keep your immune system strong, health problems can still strike. Hence the importance of comprehensive health cover tailored to your needs.
AXA Luxembourg's OptiSoins health insurance doesn’t just reimburse your medical expenses. It’s also there to support your efforts to stave off illnesses and stay fit and healthy. From preventive medicine consultations and regular check-ups prescribed by your doctor to alternative treatments such as osteopathy or acupuncture, the cover is tailored to your needs.
But let’s just say that, despite all your precautions, you develop an infection requiring specific antibiotic treatment or further tests. With the right supplementary health insurance, you don't have to worry about extra costs. You can throw all your energy into getting better, safe in the knowledge that your health is in good hands.
Simple steps to help you get back into shape
Beyond the theory, a few simple practical measures can make all the difference:
Stay sufficiently hydrated
Water helps eliminate toxins and keeps your organs working properly. Aim for 1.5 to 2 litres a day.
Ventilate your home
Fresh air limits the spread of viruses and bacteria. Open your windows every day, even in winter.
Wash your hands regularly
This simple measure remains one of the best barriers against infection.
Listen to your body
More tired than usual, low morale, recurring minor ailments... These are all signals that your body is sending you. Don’t hesitate to consult a health professional if necessary.
Your health, your priority
The post-summer holiday period is a unique opportunity to get off to a flying start. Regenerated by rest and strengthened by the sun, your body has everything it needs to take the daily routine in its stride. By adopting a few simple habits and making sure you have the right health cover, you can go back to work firing on all cylinders and stay in good shape throughout the year.
After all, your health is your most precious commodity. It deserves the proper attention, the appropriate protection and the right insurance.
