Your immune system is your body’s first line of defense. It protects you from pathogens and disease, keeping you healthy. Unfortunately, your immune system can sometimes be a double-edged sword. A weakened or overactive immune system can cause you to become ill with something known as a viral infection or chronic condition such as allergies and asthma, among others. Luckily, there are things that you can do to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Your immune system has two main branches: the innate branch and the adaptive branch. The innate branch acts quickly to neutralize pathogens or danger signals; this includes physical barriers such as mucous membranes in our nose and throat, skin, and eyes. These physical barriers act as physical access roads for bacteria and other pathogens trying to enter our body through these routes. The adaptive branch takes longer to respond but is more flexible; it analyzes information about the microorganisms we have been exposed to (also known as antigens), creates specialized cells called lymphocytes (commonly referred to as T-cells), then sends these cells out into our environment in search of pathogens or antigens that we may not have seen before.
Stay Active to Boost Your Immune System
The more active you are, the stronger your immune system will be. According to research, people ages 65 and older who are physically active have stronger immune systems than those who are not. There are a few reasons why an active lifestyle is a great way to boost your immune system. For starters, being active increases your vitamin D levels, which helps the immune system by increasing the amount of certain cells in your body that destroy pathogens. Physical activity also increases your levels of interleukins, which help to strengthen your immune system and keep you healthy. While you don’t have to become a professional athlete to reap the benefits of staying active. A few simple, everyday activities can help boost your immune system. Try incorporating these five into your daily routine for the best results.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is critical for your immune system health. Healthy foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help strengthen your immune system. Healthy carbohydrates, protein, and fats are essential nutrients for the build-up of antibodies in your immune system. The best foods to eat for a healthy immune system include: fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Get the Right Amount of Sleep
Unfortunately, many people are still unaware of the fact that a good night’s sleep is essential for your immune system health. When we are well-rested, our bodies are able to perform at their peak and our immune system is stronger too! Getting the right amount of sleep is especially important for those who are active. When we don’t get enough sleep, our bodies aren’t able to produce the natural bacteria and hormones that are needed to keep our immune system strong. So remember to get the recommended amount of sleep each night.
Don’t stress yourself out
When you are under a lot of stress, your immune system is less likely to work at full capacity. Stress hormones can actually cause your immune cells to attack your own tissues, so it’s important to be mindful of how much stress you are under and to find more stress-free ways to relieve it. One way to relieve stress is to get some exercise. Exercising helps to relieve stress and boost immune system function by increasing blood flow to the brain. It also builds up your endorphins, your feel-good hormones, which makes you feel less stressed out!
Be aware of your surroundings
Your environment is teeming with microorganisms, and it is up to your immune system to fight back. That’s why it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Try to avoid being overly exposed to situations that increase your risk of getting sick. For example, if you are feeling sick, you should stay indoors and rest until you feel better. Avoid contact with other people as much as possible, especially if you are sick with something contagious like the flu. Also, be aware of the germs lurking in public places such as coffee shops, schools, and gyms.
Keep yourself clean
Keeping yourself clean is important to boost your immune system. In fact, a study found that those who don’t wash their hands often are more likely to get sick. So, always keep your hands clean and away from your face. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands.
Get a little sunshine every day
Research has found that vitamin D is important for your immune system health. Vitamin D is produced when your body is exposed to sunlight. So, make sure to spend some time outside each day to boost your vitamin D levels. There are also dietary supplements that contain natural vitamin D that you can take daily to maintain a healthy immune system. Vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong immune function and protecting your body from disease. This form of the vitamin is important for your health because it helps your body use calcium and regulates your blood pressure, which is important for maintaining a healthy heart!