Advice from the expert to prevent disease during seasonal transitions

Acıbadem Eskisehir Hospital Endocrinology Specialist Prof. Dr. Deniz Gökalp made a series of recommendations for protection against infections and allergic disorders that increase during seasonal transitions.

The risk of infection increases with the fall season, which starts after the summer season due to seasonal transitions. Viral infections and allergic disorders are more common during seasonal transitions, especially because the body's immune system cannot adapt to cold weather. Acıbadem Eskişehir Hospital Endocrinology Specialist Prof. Dr. Deniz Gökalp talked about seasonal transitions. Dr. Deniz Gökalp warned that in order to protect themselves from infections, they should stay away from stress, sleep regularly, exercise, as well as daily fluid intake of 2 and a half to 3 liters, and consume foods containing vitamins, and recommended that patients in the risk group should get the flu and pneumococcal vaccine under the control of a physician.


“Weakness in the immune system also causes these diseases”

Acıbadem Eskişehir Hospital Endocrinology Specialist Prof. Dr. Deniz Gökalp, who gave information about the ailments that seasonal transitions can cause, made the following recommendations to strengthen the immune system against these ailments:

“Seasonal transitions coincide with the period when our immune system is weak. As the air temperatures decrease as we move from summer to autumn, with the opening of schools, the contagiousness of such viral infections increases, as well as the weakness in the immune system causes these disorders. As a result of not paying attention to our clothing during seasonal transitions, allergic reactions increase and we become vulnerable to viral infections due to many reasons such as colds and exposure to allergens. It is necessary to use natural methods to protect ourselves from this situation. Healthy sleep, regular exercise and drinking plenty of water are very important for our immune system. Another important way of protection is vitamin D. We provide our daily vitamin D needs from sunlight and we should be exposed to the sun for at least 20 minutes a day. Another important vitamin that strengthens our immune system and protects us against viral infections is vitamin C. We can meet vitamin C from fruits and vegetables. Vitamins A and E are also effective on the immune system due to their antioxidant properties and are mostly found in foods containing carotene such as carrots and bananas.”

“When you eat a protein-based diet, it benefits our immune system”

Prof. Dr. Gökalp, who believes that fruits containing vitamin C, which are slowly taking their place on the market shelves, are of great importance for immunity and recommends vaccination under the supervision of a doctor for patients with risk group diseases, said: “Since 70 percent of immune cells are found in the intestines, strong intestinal health strengthens body resistance and our immune system. When processed and prepared foods, carbonhydrate and fatty unhealthy foods are consumed, it disrupts the balance of the intestinal flora and can make the body vulnerable to diseases. A Mediterranean-style diet is the recommended diet for good health. This diet, in which fresh vegetables and fruits are consumed with healthy protein sources, also supports the immune system. In addition, some nutrients in daily meals, such as ginger, turmeric, lime, mint, and some herbs have antioxidant effects and strengthen the immune system. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination are again on the agenda. Especially in the risk group, COPD, asthma bronchitis, diabetes, cancer patients, liver, kidney and heart patients, as the immune system against infection is weakened and the patient groups with low resistance to infection are recommended to get flu and pneumococcal vaccines in September-October in consultation with their physicians. Air temperatures vary considerably in the fall months. While people are trying to get used to new temperature levels, they can also become vulnerable to diseases. Having a strong immune system reduces the risk of contracting diseases. A healthy and balanced diet is very important to keep immunity strong. Adequate and quality sleep, an active life, regular exercise, adequate water consumption, ensuring hand and oral hygiene are of primary concern for immunity.”

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