The immune system is one of the most important parts of the human body. When you are attacked by viruses or bacteria, this system takes over to ensure that you do not fall ill. While it is unable to avoid all viruses during winter, there are some simple and straightforward ways to boost the immune system such that it becomes part of your daily routine.
It is important that as you grow older, the immune system grows weaker. As such it is imperative to stay healthy and fit. It is advisable to strengthen your immune system while young in order to avoid being prone to diseases and illnesses during your later years as an adult. Here are some tell-tale signs that your immune system needs a boost:
- Regular Infections
If you are constantly experiencing multiple infections in your throat, ears, and sinuses, it could be a sign that your immune system is not functioning optimally. In some situations, it could be a result of an underlying condition and so, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
- Regular Sniffles
Everyone catches a cold after a while, particularly during the cold season. However, if you are constantly experiencing sniffles, it could be a sign that your immune system is not well-armed to fight off the germs. Catching multiple colds within a short span of time that lasts for weeks is a tell-tale sign that something is wrong with your immune system.
- Always Feeling Tired
We all feel tired from our busy schedules and constantly working. However, if you are always feeling drained and don’t have the energy to go about your day, something could be up with your immune system. There are multiple reasons to feel always tired and in such cases, it is advisable to seek advice from your doctor.
- Overwhelming Stress
Feeling stressed for an extended period can affect your immune system. That’s because it reduced the number of white blood cells meant to fight infections. With a lower white blood cell number, you are prone to get sick on a regular basis.
- Stomach Issues
Your gut is vital for the immune system and so, if you are feeling constant changes in your tummy, it could be a tell-tale sign of a struggling immune system. Antibody fragmentation is achieved through digestion with pepsin, to generate F(ab’)2 fragments, or papain, to generate Fab and Fc fragments. It is accomplished using reducing agents and proteases that digest or cleave certain portions of the immunoglobulin protein structure.
Tips to Boost Your Immune System
(i) Consume Immune Boosting Meals
Perhaps the best way to boost your immune system is to consume a nutritious and balanced diet. Your meals should be packed with minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Consider grains, fish, lean meat, and good portions of vegetables and fruits every day. Also, aims to have a combination of colours on your plate. That’s because the higher the variety of colours you consume, the more phytochemicals you ingest, which are crucial for fighting inflammation.
(ii) Stay Active
Physical activity is also important when it comes to boosting the immune system. As such, it is imperative to maintain a workout routine. Simply walking for 30 minutes per day is enough, but you can also consider hitting the gym, running, cycling, or even swimming. It is also a great way to get a good dose of vitamin D and fresh air.
(iii) Alleviate Stress
As mentioned earlier, stress takes a toll on your immune system as it hampers the production of white blood cells. While reducing stress is easier said than done, there are a few things you can do to avoid it. These include deep breathing, taking a nature walk, meditation, yoga and even listening to music. You can also reduce your stress levels by keeping in touch with your loved ones and friends.
With these tips, you should be able to boost your immune system and avoid those common winter illnesses.
