Your immune system has a big task. It fights germs and keeps
you from succumbing to sickness and disease. Because your immune system plays
such a vital role in regard to your health, you should do everything you can
to keep it strong. Here are some ways you can assist your immune system to make
it the best it can be.
1. Focus on foods that can be eaten straight from nature.
Concentrate on fresh fruits and vegetables, and add
in healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains as well. By eating a large
variety of foods, you will benefit from the combination of vitamins and
minerals that each of them provides, which work together to strengthen your
immune system.
2. Learn about the specific benefits of individual foods.
There are many foods that have special immune-boosting qualities. Fresh garlic
is antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Yogurt contains probiotics, which
benefit the immune system by giving you a healthy balance of gut flora.
3. Practice good hygiene.
steps such as washing your
hands after using the bathroom and before eating can have a profound impact on
your health. Your immune system will have fewer battles to fight if you focus
on basic precautions such as these.
4. Get a sufficient amount of sleep every night.
Your
immune system works best when it has time to rest. If you do not get enough
sleep, your immune system will be compromised, and will be less able to fight
off colds and the flu.
5. Be physically active on a daily basis.
Exercise stimulates the immune system by increasing the production of macrophages, which attack bacteria. One bout of exercise brings this effect for a few hours, and regular exercise extends this time period even further.
6. Drink lots of water to help your immune system function at its best
. Consuming at least 8 glasses of water per day assists your body in
flushing out toxins. Your body also uses water to produce lymph, which
transports white blood cells and other immune cells all over your body to fight
infection and disease.
7. Avoid unnecessary chemicals and toxins
. Taking in
chemicals and toxins puts stress on your immune system. Some are unavoidable but stay away from the ones you can. These include products with heavy
pesticides, nicotine, and alcohol. Avoid chemicals you apply topically such as
certain perfumes and lotions.
8. Get daily fresh air and sunlight.
Sunlight is necessary
to allow your body to synthesize the production of Vitamin D, which prevents
susceptibility to infection. Breathing fresh air brings oxygen to every part of
your body, which fights a variety of illnesses, infections, and diseases.
9. Reduce sugar and all substitutes.
Sugar depresses the
immune system, making it more likely for you to become ill with any virus that
you are exposed to. Sugar substitutes are no better, which are related to a
variety of health problems. Let fresh fruit satisfy your sweet tooth.
10. Make mental health a top priority.
When you are not
happy, your immune system suffers. Make time for your happiness and mental
wellness. Surround yourself with people who love and care for you, and avoid
people and situations that add to your stress level.
Your immune system fights on a moment-by-moment basis for
you. It has a tough job to do already, so help it function at its peak. Do what
you can to assist your immune system by following these 10 simple tips.
