The cold months are infamous for the rise of illnesses such as the flu and common cold. And in most individuals, the only thing that’s keeping them protected from various diseases is their immune system.
Majority of people have healthy and functioning immune systems.
However, unhealthy habits like the ones below could reduce your body’s ability to fend off diseases.
Not Getting Vaccinated
To avoid various preventable diseases like the shingles and flu, you need to make sure your vaccines are updated.
Talk to your family doctor here in Pleasant View for recommendations.
Stress
Stress and pressure from your personal and work life can make your immune response weak and increase your chances of contracting the flu, common cold, and other infections.
Take herpes, for instance, and it usually manifests during times of stress once the immune system has been compromised.
To keep yourself in tiptop shape and reduce your stress levels, exercise or practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep breathing for at least 30 minutes daily.
Smoking
Aside from increasing your risk of developing many different cancers and other serious health problems, smoking can likewise make your immune system weaker and make you more vulnerable to flu and cold, and other conditions.
Also, it can likewise cause your immune system to assault your lungs and worsen existing respiratory conditions.
This includes COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Overindulging in Alcohol
Drinking alcohol regularly and in huge amounts could negatively impact your immune system and lead to liver problems in the long run.
Additionally, it can wear away your esophagus and mouth linings, which offers bacteria and viruses easy access to your body.
If you must have your alcohol fix, limit your intake to a drink or two daily or every other day.
Lack of and Poor Sleep
Failing to get a good night’s sleep raises your risk of developing many different health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and depression.
Getting sufficient sleep every single day will help make your immune system stronger and more able to fend off infections.
Make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep every night.
Unhealthy Diet
Poor eating habits and a diet made up of foods with lots of sugar, salt, and bad fats and not enough veggies and fruits can significantly harm the immune system.
Likewise, it could lead to obesity, which in turn could make you more vulnerable to many different diseases.
To avoid this, make sure your diet includes lots of veggies, fruits, whole grains and plenty of water.
Not Working Out
There are plenty of studies that show how regular exercise can boost the immune system and enhance its ability to produce T-cells and antibodies that will help you combat different diseases.
Even walking for 20 minutes at least five days per week could help make sure that your immune system will function properly.
So do you think that your immune system is working at its absolute best?
It’s really not until you break up with the bad habits mentioned above for good.