Our bodies are made to fight off infections, harmful bacteria, illnesses, and viruses. However, most people don’t take action to improve their chances against these ailments until they are actually feeling sick. Like many other things, it’s better to get out in front of the issue and boost your immune system so you can give your body a leg up in fighting off the bad guys.
Here are 8 simple ways to strengthen your immune system:
1. Take your vitamins.
Multivitamins provide you with the recommended daily value of nutrients your body needs to remain healthy. Important vitamins that help boost your immune system include zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin B6.
2. Get plenty of sleep.
Getting a good night of sleep regularly is important for overall health and well-being. When we sleep, our bodies are busy at work repairing any physical ailments we may have, while also providing support for our mental health. Sleep deprivation can cause a weakened immune system and lead to chronic illness down the road. Adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to keep their immune systems strong.
3. Eat a healthy, well-rounded diet.
What you eat is a major determining factor for your health. If you eat a bunch of junk, chances are you are going to feel sluggish and foggy. Maintaining a healthy diet that consists of lean proteins, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limited sugar will keep you feeling your best. Furthermore, a diet consisting of fruits and veggies can provide you with important vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants to help boost your immunity.
4. Practice good hygiene.
Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after being in public, especially if you've touched a public surface like a hand railing or toilet, and if you've touched other people. Shower regularly, and change and wash your clothes regularly. You should also be mindful of touching your face, especially avoiding your nose, mouth, and eyes, which is the easiest way to spread germs.
5. Get your hormones in check.
As we age, we naturally lose important hormones in our body. Having a hormone imbalance can cause a multitude of health issues and can result in feeling tired, gaining weight, a change in sleep patterns, depression and anxiety, and low sex drive. Hormone replacement therapy can get you back to feeling young and healthy again.
6. Relax and destress.
Stress is a silent killer. It’s caused by a change in your environment and can affect you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Stress can lead to certain health issues including weight gain, headaches, an increase in blood pressure, chest pain, skin rashes, depression, anxiety, and asthma. So take a load off, read a book, take a bath, join a yoga class, and chill out… your health depends on it.
7. Get some exercise.
Exercise can help keep your metabolism on track and in turn help you maintain a healthy weight. Exercising can also keep your heart healthy, and improve circulation. Regular exercise keeps your blood pressure and cholesterol in check. As we’ve mentioned in a previous blog, even just walking 20 minutes a day can make a tremendous difference in your health, and could add 7 years to your life.
8. Keep yourself hydrated.
Water plays a key role in keeping the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems healthy and running properly. It can also help flush out toxins in the body, keep your body temperature regulated, and help keep your pH balance in check. Water also has the power to help with chronic pain like rheumatoid arthritis, backaches, and osteoporosis.
Along with these 8 tips, always make sure to avoid people who are sick or who have recently been sick to make sure that you stay healthy. At LongevityMed, we can help you get on the right path toward a healthier life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
