During the May/June rainy season here it’s also flu season.
I’m sure many of you readers can agree that some of your loved ones, friends and/or co-workers have been bitten with the flu bug lately.
Coincidence? Not quite.
The answer could be found in the immune system.
Read on to find out how to boost your immune system or you can relay the information to someone else.
Your immune system is basically your body’s defence against infections. It is made up of a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body, much like an army air force and navy protect a country.
Our immune system is usually very reliable, and when it works well it attacks organisms and substances that invade our systems and could cause disease. However, there will be times, for various reasons, it fails us. Being a complex system, it can be difficult to pinpoint how to strengthen it. Below, you’ll find some of the ways we are able to boost our chances of a healthier and stronger body on the inside!
Filling up with the right fuel
If you’re a little confused as to how to begin strengthening your immune system, then examining your diet should be your first point of focus. Swapping fast foods for whole foods and incorporating fruit and vegetables into your diet are fantastic and simple starting points.
Fats are good for your immune system – saturated fats like coconut oil and avocado are great, but avoid trans fats and vegetable oil like the plague.
Eliminate bad habits
The battle to boost your immune system is just as much mental as it is physical. While your diet may be heading in the right direction, there can be other possible variables that leave you feeling apathetic or even ill.
Moderating alcohol consumption (as it effectively dehydrates the body) and quitting smoking are proven methods to strengthen your immune system.
Vitalize with your vitamins
As I always reiterate, knowledge is power. Researching and recognising what certain vitamins do for your immune system can create a pathway towards better health. Check out the table below for a few handy hints.
Adequate rest
There have been extensive studies undertaken regarding the immune system and how it is impacted by varying sleep patterns. Getting insufficient amounts of sleep is a surefire way to increase your levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which will wreak havoc on your immune system. Ever wondered why most people who have bad sleeping habits get agitated easily?
Although it is not definitively known how sleep benefits the immune system, it’s a must have on your list even if only for general health. Adequate rest should always be high on your agenda no matter your age or the type of job you have.
Exercise
Yes, more exercise will help your immune system. If you are not a particularly active person and fall sick often, low impact exercise such as jogging or running can strengthen your body’s reaction against these illnesses. This is through the formation of macrophages, which are thought to be the cells that combat upper respiratory bacterial infections. Don’t go too hard though, excessive physical activity can also hinder this process.
Stay tuned, friends.
If you need help on building muscle or losing fat, shoot me an email: emmersoncampbell@gmail.com
