Your immune system is a complex and integral part of keeping your body healthy and functioning optimally. It relies on wholesome nutrition, hydration, effective elimination, and special attention to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Check out my key tips below to support your immune system, holistically!
🧘🏽♀️Reduce & Manage Stress!
When our bodies are stressed- they go into “fight-or flight” mode which suppresses the regular function of other systems in the body to maintain survival. The body’s ability to fight off infections is compromised as the immune system weakens. Try meditation, yoga, a good book, a relaxing bath, or a walk in nature to restore the parasympathetic nervous system to a state of calm.
🍦Reduce the intake of refined sugar!
I would never say to ELIMINATE these foods, as I am a firm believer that you should enjoy life. However, I will say that in a time where immune system function is crucial, it’s always going to be beneficial to reduce the intake of refined sugar. There are studies that indicate consuming sugar may suppress the immune system up to 5 hours after consumption!
🌱Maintaining Adequate Vitamins & Minerals!
There are a few key vitamins and minerals I recommend for immune system support- Zinc, Vitamin C & Vitamin D. Meats, chickpeas and nuts are abundant in Zinc. Broccoli, red peppers & citrus fruits are high in Vitamin C. Vitamin D is best coming from the sun. Food First is always the best approach, however our soil is wildly depleted of essential minerals compared to 50+ years ago, so I recommend working with a Holistic Nutritionist to determine a healthy supplementation regime to boost the immune system even further.
😴 Get 8 Hours of Sleep each night!
Sleep is crucial in maintaining a healthy immune system- your body digests food while you sleep and drains your lymphatic system, which removes toxins and pathogens from your body. It’s a time for regeneration, healing & restoring. Keep your room cold, don’t go on electronics 2 hours before you go to bed, keep it super dark, and try not to eat too close to bedtime- as that disrupts the digestive process, putting a lot of strain on your system and disturbing a restful night’s sleep!
