Our immune system plays a vital role in defending our bodies from aggressive germs and other harmful substances entering our bodies daily that can make us susceptible to the common colds, the flu, and other illnesses.
A robust immune system is at the core of keeping us healthy. There are several science-backed dietary and lifestyle habits that can bolster your natural defense system and help your body ward off(repel) illnesses and infections more effectively.
Consume a Healthy Diet
A nutrient-rich diet is central to maintaining good health and a strong immune system that can stave off pathogens. That means that your daily diet must include a variety of plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to keep your immune system functioning optimally. These contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and fiber, all of which can help decrease your susceptibility to illness.
Furthermore, it is crucial to incorporate leans proteins and healthy fats like salmon and olive oil, as they can decrease inflammation, strengthening the body’s immune response to harmful pathogens.
If you believe that your daily diet can not fulfill all your micronutrient needs, then a multivitamin and mineral supplement, like the Onnit Total Human, could help eliminate any deficiencies and give your body the supply of essential nutrients it needs to develop a boosted immune function. As mentioned in the Onnit Total Human review, the supplement is made of natural ingredients. It gives you a healthy dose of vitamin B, C, and vital minerals that help strengthen your immune system.
Minimize Stress Levels
Stress can take a massive toll on our mental health. But did you know that chronic stress can adversely impact your immune system as well? Whether it’s related to work, relationships, or finances, chronic, long-lasting stress can suppress the immune system by producing higher-than-normal cortisol levels, hampering your body’s anti-inflammatory response.
Accordingly, it is essential to identify sources of stress and fight them with some effective stress reduction strategies like deep breathing, mediation, exercise, etc.
Get Adequate Sleep
There is a strong correlation between getting a good night’s sleep and strong immunity. While sleeping, our body produces the all-important infection-fighting molecules like cytokines, and T cells, which are a type of white blood cell that regulate immune response and target viruses.
Therefore, you must get at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to provide your immune system the best chance to prevent and combat infections and illnesses.
Exercise Regularly
The significance of physical exercise extends beyond simply building an appealing physique. Regular exercise is a pillar of healthy living. A central component of it is a robust immune response.
Studies have shown that regular moderate exercise, about 150 minutes per week, can enhance your immune function by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which helps immune cells regenerate and travel throughout your body more seamlessly.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is vital to support our body’s systems to function at optimal levels, and the immune system is no exception. Not only does it flush out harmful toxins from the body that can weaken our immune system, but improves the flow of lymph, a fluid that carries key immune cells around the body.
A complex network of organs, cells, and proteins, the immune system is our first line of defense against harmful microorganisms that cause various infections, diseases, allergies. Practicing some healthy lifestyle habits will ensure you provide it with everything it needs to keep you healthy.