Natural solutions for a stronger immune system
The immune system defenses the human body against disease-causing microorganisms, and keeps ailment away by preventing the overgrowth of bad bacteria and the spreading of germs. However, in certain circumstances, the immune cells can fail, making one more prone to illness.
The bad news is that several factors, from diet to the lack of sleep, can cause the weakening of the immune system and increase the risk of ailment. The good news is that there are lots of natural, accessible and affordable solutions for boosting the immune function and staying healthy.
1. Watch your diet and get your vitamins and minerals
Your day-to-day habits can strengthen or weaken the immune system, so if you want to keep ailment away, make sure to exercise regularly and to eat a diet that’s rich in fruits and veggies. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, strawberries, kiwi fruits, but also broccoli, parsley and cabbage should be part of your menu, as they’re rich in vitamin C, which is a strong immunity booster.
Garlic and spirulina are also effective in strengthening the immune function and destroying bad microorganisms. Ginger, onion, green tea, seaweed and yogurt, as well as foods rich in zinc, like pumpkin seeds, red meat, fish, chicken, eggs and sunflower seeds, are good choices for keeping ailment away.
Make sure to get enough vitamin A, C, iron, zinc and selenium and eat mostly healthy foods. Keep the alcohol consumption at a minimum and avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of ailment and weakens your organism. Try to maintain a healthy weight, as being overweight or obese affects not only your blood sugar levels, but also your bacterial flora, and can alter the immune function.
Don’t forget that dietary deficiencies can increase the risk of chronic diseases, infections and inflammations; on the other hand, a proper intake of vitamins, minerals, probiotics and fatty acids reduces the risk of ailment.
2. Exercise regularly and maintain healthy habits
Being physically active helps in maintaining a normal body weight and the body’s internal equilibrium. Exercising regularly keeps the circulation healthy, prevents the accumulation of excess fluids, regulates the level of glucose in blood and helps the body use its internal reserves in a more effective manner. Also, it contributes to a better delivery of nutrients to cells and tissues, maintaining the immune system strong.
Keep stress levels at a minimum, as chronic stress can increase the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, suppressing the immune system. High levels of anxiety have also been linked with an increased risk of ailment, so if you want to maintain a strong immunity, you should take steps to avoid anxiety-inducing situations.
Maintain healthy habits, such as washing your hands frequently, even if you have an office job or work in an apparently risk-free environment. Bacteria and other pathogens accumulate on keyboards, door handles, toothbrushes and other such objects, so it’s important to maintain a good hygiene.
Herbs can be just as effective as fruits and veggies in strengthening the immune system. Echinacea for example is known to prevent infections of the respiratory tract and to keep cold and flu away. Ginseng is rich in ginsenosides, which exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, and is known to boost the immunity and to protect against diabetes.
Leaves of gingko biloba contain strong antioxidant compounds that protect the organism from the damage caused by free radicals. In animal studies, this herb has been shown to protect against radiation and to reduce brain damage.
Astragalus, an herb from China, stimulates digestion and boosts immunity, improving the functioning of the adrenal glands and working as a natural diuretic. It contributes to a healthier lymphatic drainage, combats common cold and flu and promotes waste elimination.
Cat’s claw is widely used for strengthening the immune function and treating stomach discomfort. It’s efficient in preventing infections and lowers the risk of degenerative diseases. Finally, ganoderma is thought to increase longevity and protect against certain forms of cancer. This herb is used in Chinese medicine for a very long time, has strong antioxidant properties and is efficient in relieving urinary tract infections.
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