Get the most out of your flu shot

This year’s flu is touted to be particularly severe, which is all the more reason why you should consider getting the vaccination. And if you want to make sure your flu shot is maximally effective, here are a couple new findings that offer some promising advice: Researchers from Iowa State University found that people who went for a 90 minute jog or bike ride 15 minutes after getting their flu shot had nearly double the antibody response of those who didn’t exercise afterwards. Similar research from the University of Birmingham suggests that exercising beforehand can also help increase influenza antibodies. You can read more about exercise’s role in flu shot effectiveness here, and maybe try to hit the gym the same day you get your shot.