How Changes in Temperature Affect the Immune System in Summer
Published: 20 June, 2024 | 2'
High temperatures in the streets during summer make getting into the car and blasting the air conditioning, or even at the office and at home, a great relief but do you know how these sudden temperature changes affect your immune system? Let us explain it to you with the help of Dr. Luis Gutiérrez Serantes, a doctor and disseminator.
Are your nose and throat irritated?
Going from 40 degrees outside to 24 degrees with air conditioning certainly affects our defenses and, therefore, respiratory discomfort is very common in the summer, especially in the throat and nose.
In addition to this, the seasonal changes typical of this time of year, such as variations in atmospheric pressure or wind, make the respiratory tract and nasal passages more vulnerable, as external agents can irritate and cause discomfort in the nose, ears, and throat.
"This combination of external factors causes itching, irritation, fatigue, drowsiness, dry eyes, among other symptoms. This may indicate that it is necessary to review our nutrient intake in order to achieve a good balance between energy and immunity," explains the doctor.
How to support the immune system in summer
In this regard, the expert recommends following a diet rich in vitamin B6, which contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, energy metabolism and reduces tiredness and fatigue. Some foods rich in vitamin B6 are sardines, salmon, walnuts or lentils. "Other less consumed ingredients in the West, such as shiitake mushrooms, whose traditional use as a food ingredient has been shown to be useful in supporting the body's natural defenses," explains Dr. Serantes. In addition, the diet can be supplemented with food supplements such as Provolvit Defens, which combines vitamin B6, Royal Jelly, Propolis, Colostrum, Reishi, and Shiitake.
"In addition to paying attention to our diet, exercising, practicing relaxation techniques, and having good quality sleep are other fundamental guidelines that facilitate the proper function of the immune system," adds the doctor.
What to do when we already have discomfort in the throat or nose
If you experience throat and nose discomfort, it is advisable to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Keeping the rooms ventilated can also help as stagnant air tends to accumulate dust and other substances, so it is recommended to open windows for 10 to 20 minutes every day. At night, using a humidifier to keep the nasal passages and throat moist can also help.
Furthermore, mouth sprays are an excellent option for soothing throat discomfort, such as Propoltos, an alcohol-free mouth spray prepared with eringo, propolis, menthol, and vitamin C, which helps with itching, hoarseness, and soothing the throat.
If you want to know more about what happens to your body in summer...
- Say goodbye to urinary discomfort
- The essentials for your summer toiletry bag
- Aromadiffusion with essential oils to repel mosquitoes
Content created in collaboration with Dr. Luis Gutiérrez Serantes. This article is for informational purposes and does not replace the consultation of a specialist.
About the specialist
Dr. Luis Gutiérrez Serantes is a graduate in Medicine and Surgery from the Complutense University of Madrid, author of numerous books, and a health broadcaster on Radio and Television. Known for his participation for nearly twenty years in the program 'Saber Vivir' on TVE.
