The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. The immune system keeps a record of every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated so it can recognise and destroy the microbe quickly if it enters the body again. (Better Health, 2021).
When you have a strong immunity, your body has the ability to:
- Detect and fight infections;
- Reduce tiredness;
- Provide seasonal protection (ie. against the flu);
- Recover faster;
- Promote a more restful sleep;
- Improve energy levels;
- Reduce inflammation;
- Improve mood and stress management;
According to Hourston Methodist Leading Medicine (2021), 6 ways to boost your immune system include:
- Stay up to date with the recommended vaccines:
Your immune system is smart, but vaccines train it to be even smarter — helping it learn how to recognize and fight off certain disease-causing illnesses. It’s much safer for your immune system to learn via vaccination than through infection with these harmful germs. - Maintain a healthy diet:
Eat plenty of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
In addition, a healthy diet can help ensure you’re getting sufficient amounts of micronutrients that play a role in maintaining your immune system, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. - Exercise Regularly:
Studies have shown that engaging in as little as 30 minutes of moderate-vigorous exercise every day helps stimulate the immune system. - Hydrate:
- Drinking enough water helps your circulatory system carry important infection-fighting cells around the body
- Get plenty of sleep:
There are plenty of important things happening while your body isn’t awake. For example, important infection-fighting molecules are created while you sleep.
To give your immune system the best chance to fight ff infections and illness, it’s important you get enough sleep every night, as well as take steps if your sleep is suffering. - Reduce stress levels:
During periods of stress, particularly chronic stress that’s frequent and long-lasting, your body responds by initiating what’s called a stress response. It helps you handle the stressful situations. Unfortunately, this response also suppresses your immune system – increasing your chance of infection or illness.
Stress is different for everyone, and how we relieve it is, too. Given the effect it can have on your health, it’s important to know how to identify stress. And, whether it’s deep breathing, mediation, prayer or exercise, you should also get familiar with the activities that help you reduce stress.