The immune system does an excellent job protecting against disease-causing microorganisms, but if your immune system could do with a helping hand, there are a few things you can do to provide it with some valuable support.
If you want to know how to boost your immune system, here are some simple (and natural) ways to do it…
How to boost your immune system naturally
- Quit smoking: Smoking tobacco has been shown to decrease levels of protective antioxidants in the blood, making you more susceptible to infection and increasing the severity and longevity of illness.
- Make some dietary adjustments: Foods such as citrus fruits, red bell peppers, broccoli, garlic, ginger, spinach, yogurts with live and active cultures, almonds, sunflower seeds, turmeric, green tea, papaya, kiwi fruit, poultry and shellfish are all believed to contain valuable immune-strengthening properties.
- Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular moderate-intensity exercise has been shown to boost immune strength, as well as increase the effectiveness of vaccines in individuals with compromised immune systems.
- Moderate your alcohol intake: Alcohol is known to disrupt immune pathways and affect the body’s ability to protect itself against infection.
- Get more sleep: Studies show that individuals who sleep for less than 6 hours per night are more susceptible to certain illnesses than those who get more than 6 hours of sleep each night, indicating that sleep plays an important role in immune strength.
Manage your stress levels: Chronic stress has been shown to cause inflammation and immune cell function imbalances. Engaging in meditation, yoga, exercise and mindfulness are all good ways to keep stress levels in check.
A holistic approach to immune function
The immune system is a complex and interconnected system, highlighting the importance of adopting a holistic approach to addressing issues related to immune function.
