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?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, let\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When our immune system is overwhelmed, we can become vulnerable. We get colds and viruses. Toxins and parasites can attack. But we\u2019re not helpless. There are many simple things we can do to help ensure our immune system work optimally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2019s lymphocytes<\/a> \u2014 white blood cells that fight off illness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Exercise (covered next) is a great way to destress. Also, give yourself permission to fail and don\u2019t obsess over challenges that are in the past. View the future with a \u201ccan do\u201d spirit. Cultivate friends. Get a hobby to help change your outlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Physical activity boosts the immune system to lower the risk of infection. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week \u2026 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019s ability to fight infection, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic inflammation. We should also eat a diet rich in vitamin C \u2014 such as fruits, dark leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. Choose whole foods instead of anything that\u2019s processed or packaged when given a chance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Maintaining a healthy weight comes with a long list of benefits \u2014 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\nExercise consistently <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Eat properly<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sleep well<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n