6 Ways to Keep Your Immune System Healthy

Your immune system is vital to keeping you healthy. It helps protect you from illness, infection, and disease. You can help keep your immune system strong by following some healthy habits that include a nutritious diet, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. Additionally, you can support your immune system by taking supplements like vitamins A and C and probiotics.

Here are 6 steps you can take to keep your immune system healthy.

1.  Eat Healthy

Studies have shown that malnutrition can weaken our immune systems. To keep your immune system strong and protect yourself from disease, it is important to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods. This means consuming plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein sources – while limiting saturated fat, added sugar, and salt.

Eating a well-balanced diet helps to ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to function properly and fight off infection. Immune-boosting foods like garlic, ginger, and turmeric can also help to keep your system strong, so make sure to include these in your meals!

2.  Take your Supplements!

Supplements can help you keep a healthy immune system by providing your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, and calcium are all nutrients that can help support the immune system. Vitamin C, for example, is essential for the production of white blood cells, which help to fight infection. Other vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and selenium, also play a role in maintaining a healthy immune system.

In addition to vitamins and minerals, there are several herbs and other natural substances that can help to boost the immune system. Echinacea, for example, is a popular herb that is often taken at the first sign of a cold or flu.

There are many different nutrients that can support a healthy immune system, and when the body has adequate levels of them it's better able to fight off infection and disease. That's why products like Michael's® Quick Immune Response, which contains these nutrients, can be helpful in supporting the body's natural defenses.

3.  Exercise

Moderate exercise is important for maintaining a strong and healthy immune system. However, it is possible to overdo it. Too much exercise can actually wear down your body and make you more susceptible to infections. The key is to find a balance that works for you. 150 minutes (2½ hours) of moderate exercise every week is a good goal to aim for. This can be anything from a brisk walk to an online yoga class or HIIT workout. Just make sure you listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard. With a consistent routine, you’ll be giving your immune system the boost it needs to stay strong and fight off any invaders.

4.  Relieve Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infection and disease. To support your immune system, try to reduce stress with activities like journaling, deep breathing, going for a walk, and yoga. Mindfulness meditation may also help by improving your immune system. Practicing regular self-care can help you to better manage stress and improve your overall health. Michael’s® Adrenal Factors STRESS Support™ can also aid in nourishing the adrenal glands and help you get back to a life with less stress.

5.  Quit Smoking

Smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products increases your risk of serious health problems. Tobacco use can cause inflammation, which can impact your immune system’s ability to do its job. Quitting tobacco can be tough, but there are many resources and programs available to help you. Tobacco use is a major cause of preventable death and disease. It is estimated that tobacco use kills more than 8 million people each year. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

6.  Get More Sleep

Sleep is important for both your physical and mental health. It helps to restore and repair your body, and gives your brain a chance to rest and consolidate memories. Most people need between 6 and 8 hours of sleep per night, but how long you sleep is less important than how you feel when you wake up. You should wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start your day. If you don’t, then you can explore ways to get better sleep.

There are a few things you can do to improve the quality of your sleep. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. Establish a regular bedtime routine including winding down for 30 minutes before sleep. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, and limit screen time in the evening. If you are still struggling to sleep, try Michael’s® Sleep Factors™ which can help you sleep through the night.

The Bottom Line

The best way to give your immune system a boost is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This means eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress levels. By taking care of your body and mind, you can help keep your immune system strong and primed to fight off illness.

There are many other ways to support your immune system, as well. Connecting with loved ones, spending time in nature, and laughing regularly can all help keep your immune system functioning properly. Additionally, supplementing with vitamins A, C and D, as well as probiotics, can also help give your immune system a boost.

If you’re looking to improve your overall health and well-being, start with these tips to support your immune system. By making small changes in your lifestyle, you can make a big impact on your health.