The Latest Reliable Ways to Boost Your Immune System

This year, more than ever, we have learned the importance of maintaining our overall health. With the global pandemic looming over us, we have discovered the many ways in which we can protect ourselves from contagious viruses and common illnesses like colds, and flu. The most effective preventative method is to boost your immunity.  To do that, you must learn what your body needs to function fully. That said, consider implementing these proven, reliable ways to boost your immune system. 

Physical Activity 

You must engage in regular physical activity to strengthen your body, improve your cardiovascular muscles, and boost your respiratory functions. In return, this helps promote a healthy immune system. If you have been rather sedentary thus far, then it’s time to establish an exercise routine. Exercising at least once or twice a week helps keep pathogens out of your lungs, which reduces the risk of illness. 

Good Nutrition 

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and getting the proper nutrients from healthy food is key to promoting strong immunity. Try to avoid processed and fast food, and learn about the best ingredients that promote overall health. For instance, eggs, carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy green vegetables, and red peppers are great sources of vitamin A. On the other hand, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, citrus fruits, and strawberries all supply plenty of vitamin C. You can ensure that your body is receiving vitamin D from sun exposure, and consuming fish, dairy products, and soy milk. Also, you should include seafood, nuts, poultry, beans, whole grains, and beef in your diet to get a healthy dose of zinc. 

Foods rich in zinc and vitamins A, C, and D support your immune system in effectively fighting off infections. The specialists at www.supplementfirst.com reveal that you can consider supplements to ensure that you are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need if you are not getting enough of them from food. As we approach adulthood, it is best to consider vitamin supplements while also eating a nutritious diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables to prevent any deficiency. 

Adequate Sleep

Too often, the importance of sleep for your health gets overlooked. Your body recovers when you’re asleep, which is why inadequate sleep lowers your immunity and increases the risk of infection. You’ll also notice that you are more prone to the common cold when you haven’t had sufficient sleep the nights prior. One of the best ways to heal yourself from infection is to allow your body to get plenty of sleep and rest. So, imagine how effective sleeping can be as a preventative method. Studies show that adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night for optimal health. 

Stress Management

If you are likely to experience stress often, you are at risk of suppressing your immune system. Stress boosts inflammation because it releases the hormone cortisol; this means that frequent stress exposure is affecting your overall health and making you more prone to illness. With proper stress management, you are strengthening your immunity and minimizing your chances of infection.  

Limited Alcohol Consumption

Limiting your alcohol intake is a great way to improve your overall health. Alcohol is linked to impaired immune systems and an increase in respiratory illnesses. It does not mean alcohol should be eliminated from your diet altogether. However, mindful consumption is essential. Dietary guidelines suggest no more than one drink per day for women and two daily for men.  

Quit Smoking 

If you’re a smoker, you are causing your immune system many health struggles. The general rule is to avoid inhaling anything inessential into your lungs. Smoking, and even vaping devices, are only going to trigger respiratory infections; thus, weakening your immunity. Smoking also makes you susceptible to diseases that are detrimental to your health, minimizing the effect of every other method on this list that boosts your immunity. 

Routine Vaccinations

Lastly, routine vaccinations, such as flu shots, are vital. As you age, these routine vaccinations must be prioritized more often throughout the years. The COVID-19 outbreak has taught us the importance of regular health check-ups. You must make sure that you protect yourself against pneumonia, pertussis, the flu, and other infections by ensuring that you are up to date on your vaccinations. If you miss your flu shot, you are likely to catch a cold or flu; this only makes your body more susceptible to other infections simultaneously. 

For your body to fight off infections, it must have a healthy immune system. When you take care of your health and understand what your body needs to function, you are simultaneously supporting your immune system and its ability to fight and prevent illness. Follow these trusted, reliable methods to boost your immunity and bask in the joys of having a healthy body.