11 Ways To Boost Your Immune System

Boosting the immune system is a topic of much interest today. A strong immune system helps the body fight off infection and disease. Here are 11 ways to boost your immune system.

1. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. 

One of the first of 11 ways to boost your immune system is to make sure you have immunization. Vaccines help protect against many illnesses that can weaken the immune system. That’s why it’s vital to make sure your vaccinations are up to date.

2. Sleep sufficiently.

Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and it is vital for a robust immune system. It helps the body to repair and regenerate cells, including immune cells.

When you don’t get enough sleep, your body doesn’t have time to repair and recover from the day’s events. This can lead to a weakened immune system. So, make sure to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

3. Eat whole plant foods.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is crucial for maintaining a robust immune system. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole plant foods in your diet.

Whole plant foods are packed with nutrients essential for a healthy immune system. They include foods like broccoli, spinach, kale, and berries.

4. Eat healthy fats.

Healthy fats are also vital to a strong immune system. They help to fight inflammation and keep the immune system functioning properly. Good sources of healthy fats include avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds.

5. Eat fermented foods or take a probiotic.

Fermented foods are packed with beneficial bacteria that help to keep the gut healthy. This is important because the gut is home to 70 percent of the immune system.

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can also be taken in supplement form. Good fermented foods sources include yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir.

6. Eat less sugar.

Sugar is terrible for the body and the immune system. It provides fuel for harmful bacteria and can lead to inflammation. Try to avoid processed foods and added sugars as much as possible.

7. Exercise.

Exercise is good for your overall health, but it can also help boost your immune system. Regular exercise helps to increase the number of infection-fighting cells in the body, which allows the body to fight off illness more effectively.

Exercise also helps the body to better handle stress, which can also wreak havoc on the immune system. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

8. Hydrate.

Staying properly hydrated is essential for good health. When you’re dehydrated, your body isn’t able to function at its best, which can lead to a decrease in the immune system’s efficiency. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day.

9. Stress less.

Chronic stress can have a negative impact on immunity, so it is crucial to find ways to reduce stress in your life. Stress reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can all help to boost immunity.

10. Be smart about supplements.

While there is no magic pill that can boost immunity, there are certain supplements that may help to support the immune system. These include vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics.

However, be careful when taking supplements. Do not assume supplements do what they are marketed to do. Do your homework and consult with a doctor before starting a supplement.

11. Get an annual physical.

Getting an annual physical is essential and a great way to boost immunity. During a physical, the doctor can check for any underlying health conditions that might be compromising your immune system. The doctor can also provide you with advice on improving your overall health.

If you’re transitioning to a new doctor, Reliable MD may have the provider for you. Schedule an annual physical exam with us today.