(BPT) – Maintaining a strong immune system is vital for overall well-being and fighting off illnesses. While practices like washing hands and stocking up on vitamin C are common, there are lesser-known steps you can take to supercharge your immune health.
Danielle Citrolo, registered pharmacist and vice president at medical research company Kyowa Hakko, knows the immune system is important to people of all ages. She shared different ways you can support your immune system that you may not have heard of before.
Nourishing diet with herbs and fermented foods
A well-balanced diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. Nutrients like vitamin C, D, zinc and selenium have been associated with enhanced immunity. Stock your plate with produce featuring these important nutrients to reap a rainbow of benefits. A few favorites: berries, broccoli, citrus fruits and leafy greens like spinach.
Want to go beyond produce? Consider delicious flavors featuring immune-boosting herbs and spices, like turmeric and garlic, or incorporating fermented foods like kimchi, kefir or yogurt into your diet. Sipping nutrient-rich beverages like hot lemon water with honey, green tea or echinacea tea can be helpful also.
Supplements that harness new discoveries
Medical research is thriving in the immune-health space. One recent discovery is IMMUSE™, a postbiotic that acts uniquely by activating plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC). These are a key leader of the immune system, and have been shown to activate pivotal cells such as NK, Killer-T, Helper-T and B cells, providing more comprehensive immune support.
Unlike probiotics, postbiotics are not living microorganisms, but rather nonviable microbial cells that provide health-promoting properties when consumed. Validated by over two dozen studies including 15 human trials, IMMUSE is an ingredient now available in different supplements so you give your immune system an advantage. To learn more and find a supplement visit ImmuseHealth.com.
Exposure to nature and fresh air
Spending time in nature and getting fresh air can have remarkable benefits for immune health. Being in green spaces has shown to reduce stress levels and increase the activity of immune cells like natural killer cells, according to a report in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Make time to get outdoors daily. Some simple ways include starting a small garden, creating an outdoor meditation space or exploring local parks and nature preserves. To reap even more immune system benefits, incorporate exercise like walking into your outdoor activities, as movement improves circulation and moves immune cells throughout the body.
Rest is best, especially quality sleep
Listen to your body. It’s time to stop feeling guilty about getting the sleep you need. Sleep is much more than a time of rest, it’s a time for your body to heal and cells to regenerate. Plus, it’s a crucial step for a healthy immune system.
Research shows lack of sleep can weaken immune responses and make individuals more susceptible to infections. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, people who don’t get enough sleep or quality sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus and slower to recover. Strive for between 7 and 9 hours a day, and more if you’re feeling ill.
By incorporating these simple and unique immune health tips into daily life, you can enhance your immune system’s resilience and overall well-being. Remember to consult with health care professionals for personalized advice and guidance on individual health conditions.
