Written by: Roxane Shymkiw
As we head in a cooler weather, one of the most common things I hear is the way people feel that they catch everything that goes around or does not seem to be shaking the prolonged cough and colds. While it is normal to get sick from time to time (hello back to school!), Frequent or prolonged diseases can be a sign that your immune system needs some support.
Your immune system has three different defense systems that help fight germs and keep you healthy. Natural obstacles, such as skin, saliva, mucus and stomach acid, are the first line of defense that can block or neutralize the invaders before they enter. If the germs slip beyond the natural obstacles, the white blood cells in your innate immune system react quickly to attack anything suspicious, but will not remember the invader. When a stronger and more targeted response is required, the adaptive immune system is enhanced. Specialized immune cells produce antibodies and memory cells that learn to recognize a particular germ, so if it returns, the body can fight it quickly. A powerful immune system is important to fight germs, helping you quickly recover when you get sick, protecting you from future infections and is essential for your general well -being.
What are some indications that your immune system may need some support?
Frequent colds or infections: more than 2-3 colds per year or have infections that remain more than usual.
Slow wound healing: cuts or scratches that take a lot of time to heal.
Digestive themes: Frequent bloating, diarrhea or point of constipation in an imbalance in your gut germicide.
Chronic fatigue: a feeling of persistent fatigue even after a complete night of sleep.
Inflammatory inflammatory: skin diseases, joint pain or allergies that continue to get worse.
By making minor adjustments to our eating habits and lifestyles, we can support and enhance our immune system. Eating nutrient -rich foods that supply immune cells and feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut microbicide contributes to the optimal functioning of the body’s defense system.
The food we choose to eat is one of the strongest ways to maintain immune defenses strong. Focus on nutrients that directly support immune cells and reduce inflammation and try to incorporate these habits into your daily routine:
Diet supporting your immune system
Eat multicolored plants: Highly colored fruits and vegetables are filled with antioxidants such as vitamin C, carotenoids and polyphenols that help protect the cells of the immune system from damage.
Berries, citrus, dark leafy green, peppers, carrots
Protein Priority: Protein provides immune cells and is essential for the production of antibodies that fight infections and regulate inflammation.
High quality protein, such as poultry, fish, legumes, tofu, lentils and eggs
Include fermented foods: 70-80% of your immune system lives in your gut, and beneficial bacteria in your gut play a key role in immune health.
Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, kimchi and kombucha
Do not forget zinc and selenium: Vitamin C is go-to when people begin to feel under the weather, but zinc and selenium are equally important in durability.
Oysters, shrimp, lean meats, legumes, nuts and seeds
Stay hydrated: water helps to spread toxins and support the transport of nutrients throughout the body.
Blood balance in the blood: Excess sugar can adversely affect the immune system by blocking the capacity of white blood cells and contributing to inflammation and oxidative stress. Sugar can also interfere with the absorption of vitamin C.
Whole granules, fiber -rich carbohydrates and balanced meals with protein, healthy fats and fiber
Lifestyle habits that help enhance immunity
Our lifestyle habits are just as important as diet when building our immune resilience.
Give priority to sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep one night. While sleeping, your immune system is busy with protective cytokines that help to coordinate and activate your immune cells.
Find ways to manage stress: Chronic stress can suppress immune cells, which are critical to fight infections.
Move your body every day: moderate exercise increases circulation, which can help immune system cells move more effectively.
Get out in the sun: Vitamin D from sunlight exposure enhances our immune defense.
Create the community and connection: Sharing of laughter and connection to supportive people is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to reduce stress and enhance your immune system.
If you notice that you are often sick, you have a sluggish recovery or feel exhausted all the time, it could be a sign that your immune system needs a little support. Remember, your immune system is not just about fighting influenza. It constantly protects you from everything between food germs to environmental toxins and by incorporating immune food food, restorative sleep, stress management and healthy routine builds, you can regulate yourself with the foundation of a strong system.
Are you ready to enhance your immunity and long -term health? Are you interested in finding ways to build sustainable, healthy routines? Let’s chat! Schedule an initial supplementary consultation with us today – or transfer this offer to someone you are interested in! Visit www.noshoesnutrition.com and sign up for free consultation today. We work with clients individually and in groups to help everyone achieve their goals.