Top 7 Tips on Boosting Your Immune System Naturally
Keeping our immune system strong is especially important in times like these. Luckily, there are a few tips that can help you achieve exactly that. It is through the tips that we hope you will be able to strengthen your immune system and boost its function naturally.
Can you really boost your immune system?
The immune system works by recognising the outside invaders as they enter our body. In return, this triggers an immune response that helps eliminate the invader, thus normalising our health once again.
If you notice that you are getting sick more often than usual, that may be a sign of a compromised immune system. Without a normal immune function, we are unable to shield ourselves from the thousands of bacteria and viruses all around us.
But can you really boost your immune system? Or is that a misconception? When doctors talk about boosting one’s immune function, what they mean is supporting and balancing that very same function rather than strengthening it. Having a stronger immune system will result in a stronger immune response, which is just as bad as having a low immune response.
However, the term “boost” is still quite a popular one when talking about the immune system. In the following, we will share seven tips that are meant to help you balance your immune system. This is a must in times like these when we have such a big threat as COVID-19 following each of our steps.
Stock up on whole plant foods
Whole plant foods are rich in multiple nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and, most importantly – antioxidants. We are talking about eating enough fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, all of which represent a present of Mother Nature.
The antioxidants found in these foods will help reduce the oxidative stress and free radicals in the body. These are the compounds that eventually cause inflammation in the body, thus increasing the risk of many chronic diseases. Vitamin C is an especially important vitamin when it comes to balancing your immune system and supporting its function. So, make sure that you eat all of the fruits and veggies, which are rich sources of this vitamin.
Get 8-9 hours of sleep
Getting enough sleep is just as important as eating the right foods. A lack of sleep has been linked to poor immunity. On the other hand, getting the necessary 8-9 hours of sleep per night can help balance your immune system, making it less likely that you will suffer through an annoying cold. Develop a bedtime routine that will help relax you and induce sleep if insomnia and stress are negatively influencing your sleep quality.
Rely on healthy fats
Healthy Fats.
Knowing that chronic inflammation can suppress our immune system, you should do everything that it is in your power to reduce that inflammation. Adding more healthy fats to your daily diet is one of the best ways to do that. We would recommend adding more Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, but also chia seeds and soybeans, among others.
Take a probiotic supplement
Consider strengthening your gut microflora to help balance out your immune system. Researchers have discovered that having a healthy gut equal having good physical and mental health. And so, taking a probiotic supplement and eating more fermented foods can help you accomplish exactly that.
Exercise daily
Daily exercise will help support your immune system. It will enhance the regular regeneration of the immune cells, as well as reduce inflammation. Make it a goal to move more daily. Choose from a variety of physical activities and support your immune system with their help. Whether it is cycling, walking, jogging, swimming, or at-home workouts, choose your favourite one.
Reduce stress
Chronic stress has multiple negative effects on one’s health. This includes our immune system as well. We kindly recommend considering engaging in meditation, yoga, exercise, and even professional help to relieve some of that stress and improve your condition.
Take only the necessary supplements
Taking way too many supplements will not do you any good. It can compromise your health if you happen to overstep the daily recommended intake for any of them. Instead, focus on getting enough Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc, whether it is through food or supplementation. Elderberry, Echinacea, and garlic supplements may be helpful as well.
Conclusion
Whether it is COVID-19 or some chronic issue that you are fearing, it is good to have these tips by your side. Balancing out your immune system can prevent such issues and allow you to live a healthy and happy life. We trust that your tips will make that possible.
