Common Health Issues

7 Ways to Boost Your Immune System

• By Rich Health Editorial Team
• March 17, 2021

It is a fact that Health is Wealth. The body’s immune system is the system that is our battle forte and fights off diseases and infections to ensure optimal health. 

From mental exhaustion to physical illness, the immune system takes on the responsibility of battling every factor that may pose a threat to the body. It not only takes on the role of fighting external disease-causing agents like bacteria, viruses, and pathogens but also helps in cell regeneration to complete the cell cycle and get rid of dead cells so that the new cells can replace them. 

The core of the immune system comprises white blood cells, also known as lymphocytes that circle the body via the bloodstream and filter out toxins and disease-causing elements. 

But the immune system also demands care and attention. Here are the top seven ways that can help you strengthen your immune system and ensure that your body is ready to fight off intruders and ensure optimal health: 

Immune System Boosting Ways

 

1. Consistent Sleep Cycle is Important

Many people fail to realize this, but having a consistent sleep cycle is extremely important. Nightlife may seem cool and happening, but it is not at all healthy. This is because of the lack of sleep, or inadequate sleep can lead to the weakening of the immune system. 

Some certain hormones and proteins play an integral role in battling diseases, and they are only synthesized when we are asleep. Compromising on sleep can compromise their production and release, thus leaving the body more prone to falling sick. 

Make sure that you get 7-8 hours of sleep every day. Moreover, prioritize your sleep and follow a routine so your body can switch off and relax when it has to. But remember, moderation is key, oversleeping is also not recommended. 

 

2. Consuming Garlic

Rich in allicin, a sulphuric compound, Garlic is your immune system’s best friend. Garlic has always been an integral component of ancient medicines and ointments. This is because it can support our body’s immune system and fight off infectious diseases like flu, influenza, and also the common cold. 

Although it can also be consumed in the form of pills, some studies suggest consuming it raw as that has maximum benefits. You can have a clove as it is or also add it to your diet by incorporating it into your cooking. Garlic powder is also an excellent way of consuming Garlic. It can be added to salads, topped on dishes and it can also be used as a condiment. 

 

3. Vitamin C is Immunity’s Best Friend

Have you wondered how you can support the production of white blood cells in your body? Through Vitamin C! Therefore, it can be rightfully stated that Vitamin C is your immunity’s best friend. 

Citrus fruits are a rich and natural source of Vitamin C. Therefore, adding them to your diet is an excellent way of boosting your immune system. There are certain supplements and effervescent tablets that are also packed with Vitamin C. 

 

When using Vitamin C, you will not only notice a huge difference in your overall health, but the quality of your skin will also improve significantly. Vegetables like Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Peppers, and Tomatoes are also an excellent source of Vitamin C. You can also consume fruits like Cantaloupe, Strawberries, and Kiwi are also rich in Vitamin C. 

 

4. Exercise Regularly

The production of White Blood Cells is not enough. It is important to ensure that they circulate through the body properly. This can be done via regular exercise. 

Working out also releases hormones that equip the body with disease-fighting elements. Plus, the heart rate acceleration and rise in body temperature also contribute to killing off pathogens. But ensure that you maintain a balance when working out as excessive exercise can exhaust the immune system and do more harm than good. 

According to some research, a 75-minute workout routine that is followed three times per week should suffice, and there is no need for you to run to the gym and tire yourself out via a heavy workout every day. 

 

5. Avoid Alcohol

Opposite to Vitamin C that accelerates the production of white blood cells, alcohol diminishes their release. When the macros in alcohol are broken down, nothing else but sugar remains. This further negatively affects the production of white blood cells and leads to a weak and compromised immune system. 

Regular consumption of alcohol can permanently alter the production of white blood cells and lead to long term immune system weakness. 

Therefore, alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum. Try and substitute higher alcohol concentration drinks with those which contain a lesser amount of alcohol and keep your body hydrated so the sugar can be dissolved and released from the body as soon as possible. 

 

6. Focus on Gut Health

The maximum concentration of immune cells is located in the body’s gut. The digestive system is the pathway that is responsible for the elimination of toxins and waste from the body. Therefore, it is natural for the digestive tract to be lined with white blood cells. 

Make sure that your gut remains healthy. Include fiber in your diet to ensure regular bowel movement. Adding prebiotics and probiotics to your health will also support the gut system. To conclude, a happy gut means a healthy and strong immune system. 

 

7. Opt for Antioxidants

Antioxidants are the key elements that allow the body to repair itself and replace damaged DNA. Antioxidants also help fight inflammation and keep the body’s immune system at ease. 

When planning your meals and making a diet plan, make sure that you add some food items like dark chocolate, artichokes, coffee, leafy vegetables, and grains to your diet regularly. 

 

Conclusion

Your immune system is a very critical component of your body. It is the main barrier that protects your body against diseases and illnesses. Therefore, if you want to ensure health and well-being, focusing on strengthening your immune system should be your top-most priority. 

There are several ways in which you can support the immune system. From maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep and exercise to opting for a proper diet that is rich in Vitamins and antioxidants, there are small changes that can have a huge impact on your body’s immune system. Remember, a healthy immune system means a healthy body