Your immune system acts as a vital shield against various illnesses, serving as the primary defence mechanism of your body. Just as a security system safeguards your home, the immune system employs a complex network of proteins and chemicals to combat harmful bacteria, viruses, infections, and parasites. With a robust immune system, your body is better equipped to resist and ward off illnesses, reducing the likelihood of falling sick. Immune system response is the basis of immunoassay tests created by companies that offer contract immunoassay development.
In this read, we are going to take a look at some of the things you can do today to boost your immune system:
Keep Your Gut Healthy
Medical experts now recognize that a large portion of your immune system lies in your gut, with estimates reaching up to 80 percent. To strengthen your immune system, adopting a Mediterranean-style diet that includes a variety of whole and unprocessed foods is highly recommended. Focus on antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, fibre-packed legumes, and healthy fats to help alleviate inflammation and encourage good gut bacteria. Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, and yoghurt or kefir can also contribute to a robust immune system.
Don’t forget to care for your liver, which plays a vital role in breaking fats and detoxifying the body. Incorporating kale, cabbage, and broccoli into your diet can support your liver’s natural detoxification process. A healthy diet also nourishes your body with the right nutrients, bolstering your immune system and protecting your overall well-being.
Consume Vitamins
Vitamins are important in enhancing your immune system, particularly vitamin C and D. Also referred to as ‘’the sunshine vitamin’’ Vitamin D not only boosts your immune response but also ward off respiratory issues. For fair-skinned people, basking in the sun for just 10 minutes is enough to produce sufficient vitamin D. Keep in mind that extended exposure to the Sun increases the chances of skin cancer. If you have a dark brown skin tone, health experts recommend taking a supplement form of the vitamin instead.
Vitamin C is also known to boost the immune response by enhancing cell function and protecting the body against oxidative stress ( pollutants and free radicals. Some of the best sources of Victims C include oranges, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries, and spinach.
Exercise Regularly
Engaging in physical activity is known to help clear the airway and flush out bacteria. Health experts also claim that it hampers the release of stress hormones, meaning you will be in a better mood after every session. Working out on a regular basis also keeps your bones strong and reduces the chances of developing some conditions like fatty liver disease, obesity, and heart disease. What’s surprising is that you do not have to overwork to enjoy these benefits. 30 minutes a day of physical activity is enough to keep your immune system performing optimally.
Shower after Exercise
The perspiration left on your skin not only gives an undesirable smell, but it provides a harbour for bacteria growth. This increases the chances of breakouts, fungal growth, and even infections.
Get Adequate Sleep
Sleep is the human’s natural way to reboot. Sleeping is not only vital to growth, but it acts as a way to ward off some conditions. According to a 2019 study by UCSF, inadequate sleep makes an individual 4 times more likely to get a cold. The body relies on quality sleep to regenerate cells and replenish proteins which translates to a better immune system.
Alleviate Stress
Stress is one of the major culprits of the body’s immune system. It leads to the higher production of cytokines and cortisol which trigger inflammation. It also reduces the number of white blood cells available to ward off infections, making you susceptible to colds and other conditions. So, ensure you eat right, get adequate sleep, and practice other viable techniques to alleviate stress.