Your immune system is a powerful network of organs, tissues, and cells that work simultaneously to protect your body against diseases and infections. For it to work well, you need to pay close attention to your immune system, so should you fall ill, your body has the best chance of fighting it off and helping to keep you healthy and in check.
There are lots of simple and effective lifestyle changes you can make that can significantly boost your immune system. From changing your diet to getting more shuteye, here are some of the best methods for strengthening your immune system today.
Get More Sleep
A good night’s sleep is imperative for your health and wellbeing. Sleep also plays a key role in immunity. This is because when you climb under the sheets and go off into the land of nod, this gives your body a chance to repair itself, as well as fight off infection. Those who don’t get enough shuteye are at a heightened risk of getting sick, especially after being exposed to viruses. You should aim for between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. For those who struggle to get that, making changes to your sleeping habits can help. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time which helps regulate your body’s natural sleep rhythm.
Follow a Balanced Diet
One of the best strategies for keeping your immune system healthy and strong is by following a balanced diet. This includes incorporating lots of fruit, veg, and whole grains into your diet. Such foods are full of minerals, vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. All four can boost your immune system. Try and avoid how much processed food and sugary drinks you consume. This is because they can weaken your immune system. Your body requires certain nutrients to function at its best, so aim for essential nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin D. When you make minor changes to your diet, your immune system is sure to benefit.
Take Supplements
There are certain supplements you can take which can help strengthen your immune system. One of the well-known supplements for immunity is vitamin C. You can find it in an array of fruits and vegetables. Another vital nutrient for your immune system is vitamin D. This can be found in fortified foods like milk and fatty fish. Zinc is another core mineral that plays a key part in many areas of health, such as immunity. Excellent sources of zinc include beef, oysters, and chickpeas. To boost your immune system, purchasing these supplements is key.
Get Vaccinated
With so many viruses lurking around, it’s a no-brainer to get vaccinated. You’d have to have been living under a rock if you haven’t heard of COVID-19. Of course, many millions of us have been vaccinated for COVID-19. The varicella zoster virus (VZV) can strike if you have a weakened immune system and cause shingles. Patient have a leaflet on shingles that outlines the causes, symptoms, and treatment for the viral infection. While getting vaccines won’t give you 100% protection against viruses, they certainly help in lowering your odds.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise. Some of us like it, others can’t bear it. Whatever your stance on physical activity is, getting more exercise into your day will not only boost your general health but strengthen your immune system. This is because when you work out, you boost your breathing rate and circulation. This allows your body to deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your cells, helping them to function at their best. Exercise eliminates toxins from the body and can lower stress too. Try to aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. You can do this by going for a gym session, a jog around the block, or even dancing.
Reduce Stress
Stress is a fact of life. We all have periods where our stress and anxiety are put to the test. Unfortunately, chronic stress can have a huge impact on your wellbeing, including your immune system. When you’re under pressure, your body released hormones which can suppress immunity. This puts you at a higher risk of getting an illness or infection. To combat stress effectively, there are certain things that can help. This includes trying yoga, meditating, or deep breathing techniques. Try and find time in the day to relax and unwind. Your body and immune system will be grateful for it.
Book An IV Treatment
A quick and easy way to strengthen your immune system is by booking an IV treatment. This kind of treatment helps in rehydrating your body and delivering essential minerals and vitamins directly into the bloodstream. IV treatments are surging in popularity, particularly among those who don’t have enough time to care for themselves. While IV treatments may seem like a drastic step to take, they’re excellent for boosting your immune system, preventing dehydration, and even helping with hangovers!
Get More Sunlight Exposure
Now summer is here, it’s wise to get outside and make the most of it. Doing so will top up your vitamin D levels. This helps regulate your immune system and can boost your overall health. Aim for 30 minutes of sunlight per day. If you’re unable to get outdoors, you may benefit from taking vitamin D supplements. This vitamin is a key nutrient that keeps your immune system healthy and bones strong. Most of us don’t get enough vitamin D from our diet, so getting more sunlight exposure is one of the best ways to ensure you are getting the recommended amount. When enjoying the sunshine, make sure to put on sun lotion to avoid sunburn and skin damage.
Go For a Massage
Nothing quite comes close to booking a massage. This can help you destress, unwind, and forget about what’s going on in the world. What you may not be aware of is how great massages are for boosting your immune system. It’s suggested regular massages can increase the production of white blood cells. These are critical for fighting off infections. The next time you’re feeling exhausted and need a pick me up, going for a massage may be the answer.
Practice Good Hygiene
While this may seem like an obvious tip, you’ll be alarmed at how many people don’t practice good hygiene. Actions as simple as washing your hands after going to the toilet and avoiding touching your face can be the difference between keeping your immune system in check and falling ill. There are so many bacteria and germs that harbour on your hands, so you need to get into the habit of cleaning them to stop the spread of germs. Other hygiene habits you should already follow include having daily showers, laundering your clothes, and cleaning up after yourself.
You will inevitably fall ill from time to time. Whether you’ve caught a bug in the office or from a loved one, when you’re not feeling good, you’ll want the recovery process to be as quick as possible. For this to happen, strengthening your immune system is what you need to do. Incorporating any of the above into your routine will boost your immune system and add extra protection against viruses and diseases.
