Read on for 8 ways to naturally fuel your immune system.

When it comes to the flu and COVID, getting vaccinated is the best form of protection.

Here are 8 science- and expert-backed ways to keep your immune system humming along:

1.

Stay Hydrated

Most of us know it’s important to stayhydrated.

You feel betterphysically and mentallywhen you’re hydrated.

Sleep, Sleep, Sleep!

And skip the wine for a snack of fresh grapes.

“Grapes contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep-wake cycle.

They offer some hydration, which helps to keep you healthy,” Largeman-Roth adds.

Stay on Top of Zinc

Falling short on the mineralzinccan make you more susceptible to pathogensaka illness-causing bacteria.

Getting adequate amounts is key to keeping your immune system on point.

Zinc helps to maintain our immune system, and is believed toalter our resistance to infection.

“But many people don’t know where to get it,” says Largeman-Roth.

you’re free to also find it in legumes and dairy products like yogurt and milk.

Be Social

Socialize with those you like, of course.

Vitamin D is important because it plays a key role in supporting your immune system.

It also protects againstand reduces the severity ofrespiratory infections, perresearch.

Be Mindful of Your Calorie Intake

Carrying excess weight may hamper your immunity.

Obesity goes hand in hand with decreased immunity, according toresearch.

It needs balance, and not an excess of one or two things.

The best thing you might do to protect yourself from the flu or COVID is to get vaccinated.