It is the job of your immune system to help create a defense mechanism for your body to fight against external diseases and illnesses. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), our body is made up of a complex system that has blood, bone marrow, skin, organs, and tissues that protect the human body from harmful pathogens and non-infectious agents. It becomes critical to protect your body’s immune system and we are here with a list of 5 ways. Read on!
- Stress Management is the Key
Proper management of stress and anxiety is known to be the key to a healthy immune system. Long-term stress can elevate the levels of a steroid hormone called cortisol. Internal medicine physicians at Orlando Health Medical Group Internal Medicine recommend engaging in activities that you enjoy to relieve stress such as drawing, singing etc. and meditation.
- Eating Habits for a Healthy Diet
Integrated medicine doctors suggest that nutrients from plant-based foods like vegetables, herbs, fruits, and spices can ensure the proper functioning of your immune system. According to various research studies, it has been reported that spices such as clove, thyme, cinnamon, and oregano, protein, copper, essential vitamins such as A, C, E, B6 & B12, zinc, etc. can lead towards the stronger immune system.
- Proper Sleep is Essential
It is essential to have adequate sleep since it helps your body in the regeneration and healing process that helps in a healthy immune system. According to sources from PflugersArchiv European Journal of Physiology, it has been experimentally observed that during sleep the body produces key cells in the immune system such as cytokines and T cells. All adults should get at least 7 hours of sleep for the optimization of health.
- Regular Exercising is Important
Regular exercise can help you to lower the risk factors of the development of life-threatening diseases such as heart diseases, obesity, and type 2 diabetes as well as many viral and bacterial infections. It increases the release of endorphins, a group of hormones that help to release the pain and provides an adrenaline rush and thereby can help counter stress. Stress can have a negative impact on the immune system, thus exercising regularly can help tackle it too.
- Keep your body hydrated
Dehydration can lead to headaches, hinder physical performance and focus that result in mood swings and unproductivity. These complications may increase your susceptibility to illness and disease. Water is highly recommended since it doesn’t have any calories or additives. It is advised to take more fluids when you are engaged in physical exercises or live in a hot climate.
- Turn to Supplements
Several studies indicate that some supplements can help improve your body’s immune system such as vitamin C, D, zinc, elderberry, Echinacea, garlic, etc. You should also remember to purchase supplements that have been tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
To sum it all up, you can strengthen your immune system by following some easy but crucial steps towards changing your lifestyle and diet. These
