A healthy immune system defends the body against harmful microorganisms. The immune system sometimes fails, however, and microorganisms can infiltrate the body. The result is colds, influenza, and other illnesses. Healthy living strategies give your body the upper hand against these microorganisms by boosting its immune system.
The following tips may help boost your immune system:
1- Nourish Your Body
Science tells us that people who are malnourished are more vulnerable to infectious diseases. They face more illnesses than usual and are prone to other ailments. Eat the right foods, so your immune system doesn’t suffer. Your body needs leafy greens, fresh fruits, fish, and lean meats for optimal health. Supplement with a multivitamin if your diet doesn’t provide the essential micronutrients the body needs.
2- Vitamin C
Your body doesn’t produce or store ascorbic acid, otherwise known as Vitamin C. The body depends on nutritious foods to supply it with this vital nutrient. We know that a lack of ascorbic acid can make us sick. Eat foods rich in Vitamin C like grapefruit, oranges, bell peppers, kale, and broccoli to boost your immune system. A Vitamin C supplement can also be taken to boost immunity when foods do not provide adequate supplies.
3- Stress Management
The stress hormone, corticosteroid, suppresses the immune system. Stress also indirectly affects the immune system. We pick up habits when stress affects our lives. Smoking and drinking alcohol are two bad habits we use as coping mechanisms when stressed. Both habits are detrimental to our immune system and overall health. Learn stress management strategies to cope with these unhealthy behaviors that suppress the immune system.
4- Exercise
Physical activity may help flush out harmful bacteria from the immune system. The many additional benefits we gain from physical activity, such as weight loss and better heart health, make it worth getting off the sofa. Find fun exercise strategies if the idea of going to the gym frightens you. Simple tasks like housecleaning may suffice as exercise if you turn the music loud and shake that groove thing as you clean the house.
5- Get More Sleep
People who sleep less than six hours per night are more likely to catch a cold than sleep eight hours or more per night. The poor immune system is but one risk that a lack of sleep causes. Studies show that people who don’t get enough sleep lack critical thinking skills. They also perform worse on tests and exams. Aim to sleep at least seven hours each night but strive for eight hours or more. Limit computer and TV time before bed, limit caffeine consumption, and practice sleep hygiene tips like sleep masks to get more shut-eye. Your body will thank you when it is well-rested.
Be kind to your body. Make simple adjustments using the information above to strengthen the immune system. A few simple changes ensure illness and ailments don’t find their way into your life more often than necessary. As a bonus, you’ll feel like a new person when you make simple adjustments to your current lifestyle.