When we hold the knob to open or close any door or come in physical contact to hug or shake hands or even touch a surface, each time there are millions of germs waiting to attack us and cause infections. But our Immunity is able to deal with them without us even knowing about it. We all are born with an innate immunity, a natural self-defense mechanism that protects us from external ailments and diseases causing bacteria and viruses.
But due to the changing environment, rising pollution, lack of sleep, higher stress level etc our immunity may get weak sometimes. Especially in the midst of the current scenario, it is important to take care and strengthen our immunity to keep diseases at bay. Along with maintaining the daily hygiene, like washing your hand properly with a hand wash or applying a sanitizer when out, here are some everyday tips to boost our immunity:
Nutrition builds Immunity
Nutritious Diet and A Healthy Gut: Nutrition is linked to our immune system directly. It supplies the building blocks our body needs to function appropriately. Eating nutritious food is also necessary for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is directly responsible for communication between our brain and our immune system. In fact 70 percent of the cells that make up our immune system reside in our Gut wall. And if you are thinking to improve your immunity then start taking care of your Gut by eating the right food. Research published by the Oregon University on Gut microbes says, “Our intestines contain more immune cells than the entire rest of our body”. Add more fibers and probiotics to your daily diet.
Yoga
You Go with Yoga: Workout is a powerful way to boost our immune system. Adopt daily workout sessions as it helps to circulate the body’s antibodies and white blood cells more rapidly. This means they may be able to detect and kill germs more quickly. According to Psychology Today, a new research published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine suggests that Yoga is helpful to boost the immune system and decrease inflammation in our body. Yoga is the best way to keep our mind calm and our body fit.
Immunity building Herbs & Spices
Spice-up The Immunity: Our everyday kitchen spices/ ingredients hold the secret to immunity building naturally. The University of Maryland Medical Center, confirms that Garlic promotes and strengthens our immune system. It can also help prevent heart disease. The antioxidant with antiviral properties of ginger can be used to treat digestive problems like nausea and motion sickness. Sip lemon juice which is high in vitaminC. According to Mayo Clinic, lemon is used for its antioxidant properties to prevent the common cold. Add a spoon of honey to daily food. It has great qualities. A 2012 review published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that honey, an antioxidant, acts as a natural immunity booster. Also, Curcumin, a component in turmeric, can regulate the immune system.
Stress Management
Burst Your Stress:
A Research at Carnegie Mellon University has found that people under stressed are more susceptible to developing the common cold. Our immune health is directly linked to our mental health. Under chronic stress or anxiety, our body produces stress hormones that subdue our immune system. A balanced mind, through meditation can help keep diseases away and our immunity stronger.
Sleep and Hormonal Health
Get 8-hours Sleep: Our body is exactly like a computer system. It gets overheated & churns out stress hormones like cortisol to keep us alert & awake, when deprived of sleep. This suppresses our immune system. Sleep is another natural immune system booster that helps us to relax, repair and rejuvenate.
Small changes in lifestyle, diet & routine can ensure a stronger immune system, enough to protect us against any virus/bacterial infection. Adopting some simple ways like a sound sleep, morning brisk walk, eating a balanced diet, can really be helpful. Follow them and witness the change in your body’s strength to fight against illness.
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