Many patients reach out to us as they search for natural ways to boost their immune system. Most of the time, our immune systems do an excellent job of protecting us from bacteria and disease. However, there are ways we can enhance our immunity naturally. Check out our top 7 immune-boosting tips that will help you stay healthy:
1. Stay Away From Sugar
Consuming lots of sugar suppresses your immune system by decreasing the function of the immune cells that attack invaders. A couple of cans of soda per day can decrease our white blood cells' ability to destroy and combat bacteria. To stay hydrated, choose less sugary options like tea, water, and natural fruit juices.
2. Manage Stress
Stress makes us more susceptible to illness, infections, and disease. A constant state of stress leads to a steady stream of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Both of these hormones suppress the immune system. You should consider taking up deep breathing and meditation to manage your stress.
3. Eat Your Vegetables
Consume a lot of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, cabbage, and chard. All of these vegetables aid the liver in eliminating toxins. Fewer toxins mean better health.
4. Remain Active
As we exercise and move, we stimulate the lymphatic system — a network of tissues and organs that helps eliminate toxins from the body. You will also increase your oxygenation and leukocyte count when you exercise. Leukocytes are white blood cells that help your body fight infection. Something as simple as a short thirty-minute walk will be beneficial.
5. Get Plenty Of Sleep
The more you exhaust your body, the more susceptible you are to illness. Sleep deprivation weakens our immune system. When you sleep, your body rests and repairs itself, so make sure you get plenty of shuteye. Stress and insomnia can cause inflammation and cortisol levels to spike. A good night's sleep is essential to boost the immune system.
6. Relax With Meditation
The practice of meditation calms your mind and body. Having just ten minutes to sit and be still a day has an amazing physiological impact, which improves the quality of life. You can download apps or find online guided meditations if you have a hard time sitting still. You can calm your mind by practicing awareness, compassion, deep breathing, and watching your thoughts.
7. Get Adjusted
Chiropractic care boosts your immune system naturally. A body is a dynamic system that includes the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems that communicate with each other. When you are adjusted, all of those systems are realigned and able to properly function. This results in an increase in overall health.
We strive to help our patients feel their best at Preferred Chiropractic. Support your body through the holiday season with a natural boost to your immunity by turning to chiropractic care. Just click here to contact us and get started at your local Midland, MI Chiropractor.