Continuous Illness
 

Over the past year I have been suffering from every cold and flu that has gone around. For the most part this has been just mild illness but it has been pretty regular. I don't drink much or smoke. I eat right (mostly), I take a multivitamin supplement and I stick pretty closely to my training program when I'm not ill. I also get plenty of sleep and don't have much stress. I only work about 6 hours a day. The biggest change has been that I quit my job teaching adults and switched to an elementary school. I figured that in the elementary school I have been exposed to many more illnesses. My students are always sick.
I have also been following a moderately heavy training routine since last January. I rest when I need to and adapt my training to my physical condition when necessary. I'm just tired of these stupid colds disrupting my routine. Is there anything I can do or take to strengthen my resistance to illness after training.

Meditation has been helpful for me

Observe your daily habits . . . wash your hands regularly and often, don't touch your eyes, etc. Be extra mindful.

Also, eat foods every day that strengthen the immune system such as onions, garlic and spinach.

Take B-complex in addition to a good multi-vitamin.

Strength training has been shown to strengthen the immune system.

Get extra sleep. Most people are sleep deprived. If your body is fighting a cold AND you follow a heavy workout program your body may need closer to 10 hours of sleep every night. If you want to live a healthier life it is worth considering the investment of sleep time. You'll have more energy, be more efficient, feel better, work better.

Sandy

Did you get an annual flu shot or did your GP say that you couldn't have one or didn't need one? If you can, get one even at this late date. It takes about 2 weeks to take effect. Do you have a fever, even a mild one? If you do, see your doctor. All of this illness can lead to more serious conditions such as pneumonia.

My experience with young kids is very similar to yours. To answer your question though...you're doing it. Your body will adapt to what it is being exposed to given time. Just keep doing what you can to help it. Especially make sure that you are building enough recovery time, including rest days, into your training.