Your immune system is your body’s main line of defense against viruses, harmful bacteria, and parasites. A strong immune system decreases the chances of you getting sick. A weakened immune system increases your risk of getting infections and of having more frequent and more severe infections.
Did you know there are multiple ways you can boost your immune system to maximize its effects? These include the foods you eat, your level of stress, and the health habits practice that can help strengthen your immune system. Certain habits can also weaken it. There are a number of ways that you can nurture your immune system, such as food choices, sleep, and stress management. Here are five tips to boosting your immune system.
1. Foods to Boost Your Immune System
2. Foods that Weaken Your Immune System
Processed foods
Foods high in sugar
Foods high in refined carbohydrates
3. Sleep:
Lack of sleep can cause the inflammatory immune response to activate
Reduces the activity of T cells in the body
Weakens your immune
Sleep for 7–8 hours and avoid having an all-nightery
If you happen to be travelling in different time zones on a regular basis, consume 2–3 mg of melatonin to reset the circadian rhythm
4. Exercise:
Working out with moderate activity on a regular basis has been scientifically proven to boost the immune system
Regular exercise mobilizes the T cells
Continuous rigorous workout weakens the immune system
5. Stress
Chronic stress suppresses the immune response of the body
Cortisol interferes with the T cells to reproduce and receive signals from the body
Cortisol also reduces the antibody secretory IgA, which lines the gut and respiratory tract
To keep your stress in check, practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing in your regular routine