Think of your immune system as a military team that protects the rest of your body against viruses and opportunistic infections. Your white blood cells are responsible for most of it but in order for any military team to be strong and ready for battle, it needs to train and stay fit. Your immune system is no different. Here are a few things you can do to make sure it stays strong, especially during cold and flu season.

Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables

Salty and fatty foods are okay to eat as a treat, but fresh fruit and vegetables are a great source of nutrients. The vitamins and minerals in fruit and vegetables can boost your immune system and help the rest of your body function smoothly. So consider adding these to your daily diet.

Exercise regularly

Exercise is good for your body as a whole. Keeping active can help strengthen your antibodies and white blood cells, which fight disease. Exercise can also help your lungs flush out bacteria and viruses that cause the common cold, flu and other illnesses. Remember you don’t have to do anything hectic like lifting weights or running long distances. 5 minutes of light-to-moderate exercise like jogging or aerobics is enough.

Take your medication regularly

If you’re living with a chronic disease, you’re probably on medication. It’s really important to take your medication as prescribed by your health care provider. Keep in mind that your medication contains all the things required to strengthen your immune system while fighting off any bacteria or virus that try to enter your body. 

Get enough rest

Sleep is not a waste of time. It’s actually the way your body repairs and energises itself. If you don’t rest, you are robbing your body of exactly what it needs to function at its best. This makes it harder for you to fight off diseases and stay healthy.

Take steps to avoid infection

While your immune system is made to fight off infections and diseases, you also need to help it out by preventing infections caused by bacteria and viruses. Make sure that you regularly wash your hands with soap, eat healthy food that’s high in vitamins and minerals and practise safe sexual habits.

Your immune system works around the clock to keep you feeling good and strong. Help it out by practising these 5 easy immune boosting tips.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).