Despite living at a time when quality of life should be better than ever, we often feel more stressed than ever. Stress can lead to a host of behaviors that impact our immune systems, causing improper hydration, nutrient deficits, and sleeplessness.

And, if you have a chronic condition, a weakened immune system can lead to all sorts of problems. So how can we boost our immunity?

First, let’s review what makes up our immune system. All sorts of bodily organs and cells work together to fight off infection and keep us healthy: white blood cells, the lymphatic system, spleen, bone marrow, thymus, and antibodies, just to name a few. 

When our immune system is overwhelmed, we can become vulnerable. We get colds and viruses. Toxins and parasites can attack.  But we’re not helpless. There are many simple things we can do to help ensure our immune system work optimally.

Stress less

When a person is stressed, their body produces higher amounts of a hormone called cortisol. The higher your levels of cortisol, the harder the immune system works to reduce inflammation. When sustained for long periods of time, this leaves the immune system overworked. As a result, this reduces the body’s lymphocytes — white blood cells that fight off illness.

Exercise (covered next) is a great way to destress. Also, give yourself permission to fail and don’t obsess over challenges that are in the past. View the future with a “can do” spirit. Cultivate friends. Get a hobby to help change your outlook.

Exercise consistently 

Physical activity boosts the immune system to lower the risk of infection. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week … or 75 minutes weekly if you prefer vigorous exercise. About 20 or so minutes a day of walking is all you need. Just exercise consistently and make it a habit.

Eat properly

About half of American adults have one or more diet-related chronic diseases. A major reason is too much sugar intake, which interferes with our body’s ability to fight infection, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic inflammation. We should also eat a diet rich in vitamin C — such as fruits, dark leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. Choose whole foods instead of anything that’s processed or packaged when given a chance. 

Maintaining a healthy weight comes with a long list of benefits — such as lowering the risk of high blood pressure, Type II diabetes, sleep apnea, joint pain, allergies, and cardiovascular disease. Excess body fat (abdominal fat in particular) lowers the production of pro-inflammatory proteins, which impairs the immune system.

Sleep well

When you don’t sleep enough, your body makes fewer cytokines — a protein that interacts with the immune system to keep disease at bay. Adults need seven to eight hours per night of sleep. Allow yourself to wind down before bedtime to take your mind off the stresses and responsibilities of the day and help you get ready for restful sleep.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can cause headaches, impact digestion, lessen the ability to focus, and create many organ, mood and physical performance deficits. Hydration is also critical to helping your heart pump blood properly.

Drink hydrating fluids throughout the day, and, no, coffee and alcohol do not count. Remember that by the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Don’t wait for your body to beg you to hydrate. Drink water and other fluids regularly to avoid thirst in the first place.

Don’t neglect your vitamins and electrolytes

If you’re not sure if you’re getting enough supplementation in your diet, please reach out to me.  It could be that IV therapy for antiemetics, electrolytes, or hydration would be helpful to those who suffer from an abundance of colds and infections. This type of infusion is also helpful if you’re pregnant or have recently undergone surgery. By undergoing IV vitamin therapy, you get the nutrients delivered directly into your bloodstream.

Infusion therapy could give your immune system a jump-start

Most of the tips I’ve provided are things you can do on your own. It’s important to take ownership and to practice immune-boosting behaviors until they become a habit.

However, getting started could be difficult. IGNITE Infusion Therapy can provide that little extra spark you need to put your immune system on the right path. Please contact us for a no-obligation evaluation.