Do you feel tired all the time, or do you get colds quite often? Are you wondering if it’s time to improve your immune system?
Wounds that don’t heal, high-stress levels, and stomach problems are all signs that your immune system is compromised. It makes you more prone to infections such as pneumonia. Low immunity is particularly concerning during the time of COVID-19.
Believe it or not, there are natural ways to boost immune system strength and keep your body’s natural disease-fighting systems in top shape.
Here are some of our favorite ways to improve your immune system.
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can actually boost your immune system. In fact, a link has been found between obesity and an increased risk of bacterial infection.
There are a number of ways to control your weight, including reducing your calorie intake by limiting portion size. You can also add a fitness routine into your daily activities and choose a more physically active lifestyle. This could involve taking the stairs or opting for a standing desk that will make you less sedentary.
As you start to get a bit older, you may find that keeping your weight down takes a little more work. This may be because you’re losing muscle tone or experiencing normal hormonal changes.
Keeping your weight down may require the help of some workout buddies or a coach. Some programs, such as Kiya Longevity, focus on developing a healthy lifestyle that you can maintain throughout your life.
2. Eat Lots of Fruits and Veggies
A diet rich and fruits and veggies can also help you to keep and maintain strong immunity.
Particularly helpful are citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. These contain a high level of Vitamin C, which is thought to boost your body’s production of white blood cells. These are critical for your body’s ability to fight off infections.
Foods like broccoli and spinach contain high levels of Vitamin A. This vitamin is involved in creating B-cells and T-cells, which are important for cellular immunity.
Vitamin D is also important for preventing colds and cases of flu. In today’s world, we could all use the immunity boost Vitamin D provides. You can find it in spinach and kale, as well as some fortified foods like orange juice and oatmeal.
3. Drink Lots of Water
Water can help bring oxygen to your cells and remove toxins from your body. Staying hydrated, therefore, is important for an efficiently working immune system.
If you aren’t a fan of plain water, opt for seltzer or tea so you’re system is still getting the proper amount of hydration and circulation.
4. Sleep Well
Believe it or not, your immune system is actually building itself while you sleep. It releases proteins known as cytokines, which your body needs to help regulate infection and inflammation.
Losing sleep long-term can also increase your risk of diabetes of cardiovascular and heart disease. If you want to avoid infection, make sure you’re getting at least seven to eight hours of Zzzs each night.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress can actually reduce your body’s levels of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that you use to fight off infection. This puts you more at risk for catching viruses and colds. Too much stress can also increase your risk for stress and anxiety, which can tire out your immune system.
If you’re always stressed out, try introducing some relaxing, stress-reducing activities into your schedule. These could include yoga, long walks, or aromatherapy. Make sure you choose activities you enjoy that will help you feel centered, peaceful, and less anxious.
6. Get Some Exercise
Exercise can improve your blood flow, reduce stress, and strengthen antibodies, thus helping your immune system to fight off infections.
If you haven’t worked out in a while, start with some simple low-impact workout videos or a slow job. You’ll gradually find it easier to get a little movement into your schedule every day.
7. Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands properly is important in protecting your immune system. You should wash them for at least twenty seconds after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If there isn’t any soap and water available, reach for some hand sanitizer.
8. Stay Warm
During the winter, your extremities, such as hands and feet, are colder. This can reduce your flow of white blood cells and make you more prone to illness. Viruses can also survive better in colder climates.
If you want to keep your immune system healthy, make sure to bundle up whenever it’s chilly outside.
9. Be Positive
Believe it or not, a positive attitude can boost your immune system and even help you live longer. So the next time you’re tempted to feel blue, call up a friend and have a few laughs, or watch something affirming and uplifting. It could be a key to good health!
10. Have a Cup of Tea
The L-theanine in green tea has been shown to increase your immune system’s responses. The magic drink is also thought to improve brain function, increase fat-burning, and even reduce your risk of certain types of cancers.
So the next time you’re tempted to reach for another cup of joe, have a cup of green tea and protect your mind, body, and soul.
Ways to Improve Your Immune System
In today’s world, many people worry about the threat of infection. The right ways to improve your immune system are varied and may be simpler than you think. With the right diet, exercise, and rest, you could be on your way toward a healthier body for years to come.
Don’t stop improving your health and lifestyle now. For more great advice, read our blog today.
