The human immune system is a well-organized defense network that creates barriers to pathogens, spots threats and attacks them, and retains some records that allow it effectively fight these should they return. These critical roles are played by multiple organs and systems that include the white blood cells and the lymphatic system in particular, with a strong supporting cast that includes organs such as the spleen.
While the immune system is well-organized and highly capable on its own, ultimately, the lifestyle choices of every individual will determine just how effective their immune system will be when faced with health challenges. With the right or wrong choices, you can easily strengthen or weaken your immunity—for example, habits such as smoking and drinking are well-known to compromise immunity to some degree, whereas healthy eating will have the opposite effect.
If you have been suffering from repeated minor illnesses and infections, this may be a sign that your immune system is weak, and requires some action. Here are the steps to take:
- Eat more nutrients
Eating a healthy, nutrient-rich diet is one of the best ways to boost immunity. Ordinarily, you would get these nutrients from eating a balanced diet—which is one that contains all the different classes of food including proteins, carbohydrates, fats and oils, nuts and legumes, and fruits and vegetables.
A balanced diet will provide the cocktail of nutrient resources that the immune system needs to perform its critical functions. These vitamins include vitamins A, C, D and B6, along with minerals such as zinc and selenium. While these are obtainable from food, you can also get them from a high-quality immunity system support supplement from a high-quality supplier like Level Up Nutrition, and this is a good idea because, unlike with food, the vitamins in supplements will be measured to provide just the right doses.
Of recent, nutritional supplements have developed something of a poor reputation thanks to the many shady companies out there that develop unverified and often outright fraudulent “supplements”. However, supplements are proven to work, so you simply need to choose your supplements from legitimate companies with FDA certification.
- Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is proven to boost immunity in a number of ways. One, it helps improve total body function by improving the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to all organs. Secondly, exercise has proven abilities to help rid the body of the free radicals that lead to diseases such as cancer.
- Get enough sleep
Sufficient amounts of sleep, recommended at between seven and nine hours per night for an adult, are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. When you sleep well at night, there is a spike in the number of immune cells in circulation as they aid the body in carrying out repairs to damaged tissues.
- Manage stress
When anxious, depressed, or otherwise stressed, the body releases certain hormones including cortisol, which is known to have a depressive effect on the human immune system once it reaches chronic levels. Good stress management practices may include regular cardiovascular exercise, healthy eating and positive self-affirmation. You may also need to seek professional help.
Image Source: Pixabay
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