Natural ways of boosting the immune system are high in demand these days and it’s easy to understand why. With COVID-19 leading to many fatalities and making people sick all across the globe, the need to have a power-packed immunity has risen. Although the vaccine is out, the need for a healthy immune system can never be outdated. As the world prepares itself for recovery, one thing is certain and that is actively working towards maintaining a healthy immune system, which is now a trend that will continue to be followed. Ok, so does that mean you need to drink those bitter-tasting kadhas every day and keeping a check on whatever you eat? Yes, to some extent. However, there are many other ways which when adopted may give your immune system an added advantage.
Being incredibly complex, your immune system needs to be strong enough to be able to fight against illnesses and infections. Below-mentioned are some of the science-backed ways to ensure your body is getting everything it needs to maintain an optimally functioning immune system. Keep reading:
Maintain a healthy diet
A healthy diet is the key to a strong immune system. This means including plenty of green vegetables, legumes, fruits, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats in your diet. Besides giving your body the energy it requires, a healthy diet also ensures that you are getting enough micronutrients that play a crucial role in the healthy functioning of your immune system. Some of these micronutrients include:
· Vitamin B6: Found in tuna, chicken, bananas, salmon, potatoes (with the skin), and green vegetables
· Vitamin C, Found in citrus fruits including strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, and broccoli
· Vitamin E, Found in sunflower, almonds, safflower oil, peanut butter, sunflower seeds, and spinach
Although your body’s capacity to absorb nutrients more efficiently is from dietary sources, you may opt for supplements and multivitamins from reputed medical stores in Delhi such as GNC and Muscle & Strength, Select CITYWALK to support your immune system and keep it healthy.
Exercise regularly
Physical exercise is not just for bodybuilders or those wishing to de-stress or lean up. It’s also a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle and robust immune system. Exercise boosts the overall circulation of the body, thereby allowing immune cells and other infection-fighting agents to travel more freely throughout the body. Studies have proved that 20 minutes of moderate to high-intensity exercise may stimulate your immune system. Something as simple as walking can also benefit you in several ways. So pick your running shoes from Decathlon, Select CITYWALK and get going.
Hydrate plenty
Water plays many roles and good hydration is the key to a healthy immune system. Our circulatory system comprises a fluid called lymph which is the carrier of crucial infection-fighting immune cells. Since lymph is largely made up of water, being dehydrated slows down its movement that may lead to an impaired immune system.
It is important to understand that you are constantly losing water via your breath and through urine and bowel movements, even when you are not sweating. To support your immune system, stay hydrated and keep a water bottle with you every time you go out.
Get plenty of sleep and minimize stress
While you are asleep, your body is busy making important infection-fighting molecules. Studies have shown that those who don’t get adequate quality sleep are more likely to get sick after exposure to viruses and bacteria. Therefore, it’s important to get plenty of sleep.
Excessive stress may initiate a stress response in your body which suppresses the immune system and increases your chances of acquiring infections or illnesses. This makes it necessary to identify your reasons for stress and engage in activities that help cope up with it, be it prayer, exercise, deep breathing, or meditation.
Consider keeping up with the lifestyle habits above and that’s all you need for a healthy and strong immune system.
