Bad Habits That Boost Your Flu Risk
Too Much Stress
People who stress too often may find themselves in bed, sick with the flu. According to a 1984 study on university students during finals, chronic stress may weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses like the common cold and flu.
Review Date:
February 7, 2014Citation:
SLEEP, “Diurnal Rhythms in Blood Cell Populations and the Effect of Acute Sleep Deprivation in Healthy Young Men” Harvard Health Publications, “How to boost your immune system” Journal of Behavioral Medicine, “Modulation of Cellular Immunity in Medical Students” Ohio State Research, “Social Stress May Trigger Problems in Immune System” Association for Psychological Science, “Optimism Boosts the Immune System” CDC, “Stopping the Spread of Germs at Home, Work & School” NIH, “Alcohol and the Immune System” University of Connecticut, “Immune Function: Basic Considerations of Exercise and Hydration” The Guardian, “Obesity may harm immune system” Medline Plus, “Immunodeficiency disorders” Flu.gov, “Caring for Someone with the Flu” CDC, “What You Should Know for the 2013-2014 Influenza Season” Courtesy of Chrishowey | Dreamstime Courtesy of Christine Langer-puschel | Dreamstime Courtesy of Ariwasabi | Dreamstime Courtesy of Lunamarina | Dreamstime Courtesy of Alexandre Miguel Da Silva Nunes | Dreamstime Courtesy of Yuri Arcurs | Dreamstime Courtesy of Pbclub | Dreamstime Courtesy of Muriel Lasure | Dreamstime Courtesy of Arne9001 | Dreamstime Courtesy of Aprescindere | Dreamstime Courtesy of Stephen Coburn | Dreamstime Courtesy of Tomnex | Dreamstime Courtesy of Mirivah | Dreamstime Courtesy of Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime Courtesy of Martin Allinger | Dreamstime Last Updated:
September 15, 2014
