How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally All Year Round
Get some sunshine!
Increasing vitamin D especially in the colder months is so important to improve your immune system and so many other areas of your health. Vitamin D plays a significant role in regulating your body’s cells to fight illness and imrpove your immune response when exposed germs and infections. The best way to increase your vitamin D is to sit in the sun for 10-15 minutes a day preferably in the morning.
Foods that boost the immune system
Dietary habits are so important to boost and maintain healthy immune system function, eating a variety of colourful whole foods containing vitamins, mineral and antioxidants.
Vitamin C, A and E: these essential vitamins act as antioxidants in the body which help support your immune system function optimally. Foods like organges, kiwi, broccoli, carrots, dairy, eggs, nuts and seeds are high in these key nutrients.
Zinc: another powerful antioxidant that is beneficial for the development and function of your immune system, food sources like oysters, beef, chicken, legumes, nuts and seeds are beneficial.
Effects of stress on the immune system
Stress can significantly affect the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness and dampening your overall health. Stress causes your body to go into “fight or flight” mode, which spikes your cortisol to help you to run away from danger and and as a result suppresses your immune response. When stress is prolonged and chronic, your immune system and other important functions in your body are suppressed which can lead to long term health effects like increased inflammation and increased risk for disease.
This is why it is so important to manage your stress especially when you’re more susceptible to illness, through diet, lifestyle and seeking ongoing support from a health practitioner to help you feel like yourself again.
The importance of sleep for a healthy immune system
SImilarly to stress, poor quality and reduced sleep duration have major effects on your immune system. Sleep is so important for your body’s natural process for life, playing a massive role in physical, mental and emotional health. Sleep also has a major effects on your body’s systems including your immune health, those who have poorer quality of sleep are more susceptible to illness.
Smoothie recipe for immune health
This smoothie is rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins, making it a great option for supporting and boosting your immune system.
½ banana
Handful of frozen berries
1 kiwi fruit, peeled
1 cup spinach
Small piece of fresh ginger
Sprinkle of black pepper
Manuka or organic honey
Milk of choice
