During the entire year, but especially during the winter months when colds and flus are at their peaks, it is a good idea to keep your immune system strong so it can easily protect you from pathogens that try to enter and attack. The good news is that there are ways that you can improve immunity naturally so you can optimize your immune system’s function.
One of the first ways you can begin the process of improving your immune system through natural therapies is to pay close attention to how you feel on a daily basis. If you notice that you are feeling tired, sluggish or less energetic than you usually do, and nothing has changed in your routine, your body may be fighting off a bacterial or viral infection. However, if you implement tips to improve immunity naturally, your body will be better equipped to ward off germs before they have the opportunity to invade your body and make you sick.
Get Enough Sleep
One of the best defenses against colds and influenza is sleep. When the body is deprived of sleep and rest and/or under stress at the same time, it releases a higher amount of the hormone cortisol. When the levels of cortisol are elevated for period of time, the immune system becomes suppressed.
Do Not Smoke
Tobacco smoke suppresses the basic functions of the immune system. It also increases the risk of those around the smoker as well as the smoker of developing bronchitis and pneumonia. Second hand smoke can also cause children to get middle ear infections.
Do Not Drink Alcohol
When excessive amounts of alcohol are consumed, the immune system also becomes impaired. The body becomes vulnerable to infections in different parts of the body such as the lungs.
Eat Healthy
Your diet should include limited processed and junk foods, and more whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. These foods will provide the body with the nutrition it needs to stay strong against bacteria and viruses. Studies in older adults have concluded that when they consume more fruits and vegetables improved their antibody response to the vaccine that protects against pneumonia.
Chiropractic Care
Research has shown that chiropractic adjustment of the subluxation can improve the body’s immune response. This means the life, or the time that you have, of a common illness (a cold, flu, sinus congestion, allergies, etc.) can be cut short with a visit or two to your chiropractor. Studies are now being conducted to find the connection between the nervous system and our body’s immune system.
Your immune system is your body’s defense system against infections. Simple lifestyle changes can help to improve immunity naturally.
Contact us today to learn more about our chiropractic services.