immune system

Easy, Natural Ways To Boost Your Immune System

Are you worried your immune system will be susceptible to the Coronavirus?  With the Coronavirus (COVID-19), more people are interested than ever in building up their body’s defenses.

Focusing on just a few simple tactics can really increase your chances of staying healthy and avoiding Coronavirus this season. We’ve listed easy Immune System Boosters you can begin practicing today, as well as the ways you may not realize are actually weakening your immune system.

Natural Ways To Improve Immunity

Your immune system is a process of checks and balances. It helps fight off disease and illness and protects the body. It’s possible to naturally boost your immune system – and a lot easier than you probably think. Here are our top five ways to jump-start your immunity:

  • Eating a well-balanced diet. Foods can undoubtedly boost the immune system. Try to eat a variety vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy products, as well as lean protein. Also, opt for foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, eggs, and avocados. All these foods will not only help build up parts of your immune system but can also help you maintain a healthy weight.
  • Prioritizing breaking a sweat. Moderate-intensity exercise for just thirty minutes a day can help you maintain a healthy immune system. But, an activity that’s too intense, especially if you’re already feeling under the weather, can have the opposite effect and lower immunity.
  • Stay hydrated with water. Are you drinking enough water? Adequate water intake can have a huge impact on your immune system. Water aids your body in digestion and helps prevent possible pathogens like a virus or bacteria from getting into your nose, eyes, and mouth. Drinking water daily helps all the body’s defenses function correctly. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.
  • Getting enough sleep. Are you sleeping enough? Getting restful, quality sleep has been proven to help your body fight off sickness and help succeed at the tips we’ve outlined above. Adults should aim to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
  • Up your Vitamin intake. Vitamins C, B6, and E are all known for their incredible immune-boosting properties. You can get all of these vitamins from a well-balanced diet that focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables. This means you don’t necessarily need supplements unless you feel your diet has nutrient gaps. 

Immune-Boosting Supplements

If you’re considering taking extra vitamins or supplements to help your immune system, check with your practitioner before buying or starting any supplement. Supplements may interact with your regular medications.

  • Vitamin D3

As the most common vitamin deficiency seen in healthy adults, research has proven a deficiency in vitamin D3 is associated with increased autoimmunity (the body attacks itself) as well as increased susceptibility to infection. Adults can take vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in regular capsule form at levels between 1,000 IU. 

  • Vitamin B12 & B6

B12 and B6 are two of the primary B vitamins responsible for immune support. Vitamin B12 manages cell growth and division. Therefore, a lack of this Vitamin can obstruct the growth of white blood cells. Vitamin B6 is also vital in supporting biochemical reactions in the immune system. A deficiency in B6 can lead to a lower white blood cell response. Additionally, the B vitamins help protect your gut from pathogens.

  • Vitamin C and Zinc

Several cells of the immune system actually accumulate Vitamin C, which require the Vitamin to perform their tasks, especially Phagocytes and T-cells. Zinc has also been proven to fight infections and help heal wounds.

  • Probiotics

Probiotics in the GI tract can help to reinforce the barrier function of the intestinal lining, lowering your chance of bacteria in the intestines entering the bloodstream. Of all the healthy bacterial strains, four have been proven by research studies to significantly impact the immune system.

What Weakens and Hurts Your Immune System?

On the other hand, there are habits you might have that hurt your immune system, rather than boosting it.

  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol use
  • Poor diet (such as excessive sugar intake)
  • Not getting enough sleep
  • Dehydration
  • Not working out regularly
  • Obesity
  • Unchecked stress and anxiety levels
  • Taking antibiotics too frequently

Who is more at risk for the Coronavirus?

The elderly and anyone on immunosuppressive therapy, such as Cancer or Transplant Patients, and those with Chronic Medical Conditions, like Diabetes, COPD, and Obesity, are at risk for their immune systems are weaker.

The bottom line – start focusing on building your immune system

Unfortunately, this year’s flu season (due to the Coronavirus) is an especially tough time to keep your immune system healthy. 

The best advice we can give you is the same as what experts are telling us to do: keep washing your hands often (for at least 30 seconds), cover your coughs and sneezes in your elbow or with a tissue, drink plenty of water (8 glasses a day) and eat a good diet full of whole-fruits and vegetables. You can also try coming in for research-backed immune-boosting therapies we offer at Cold Play Cyro.

Want to learn more? Feel free to give us a call at 203-349-3400 or email us at info@coldplaycryo.com