Ask the Expert Supporting Immune Health
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cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.htmlNutrition and immunity. (n.d.).
hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/nutrition-and-immunity/Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 23, 2022 By Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP Edited By Steph Coelho Copy Edited By Naomi Farr Share this articleBy Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP on September 23, 2022
Ask the Expert How to Support Your Immune Health
By Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP on September 23, 2022Share on PinterestWhat does it mean to support your immune health and why is it important
Your immune system is made up of white blood cells, the lymphatic system, several different organs, and tissues that all work together to fight off germs or foreign organisms like viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Without a well-functioning immune system, people can frequently get sick. Supporting your immune health means keeping your immune system as healthy as possible to fight off foreign organisms that cause infection and disease. There are several different ways you can support your immune health, including:eating a well-balanced dietexercising regularlygetting enough sleepmaintaining good hygienequitting smoking (if you smoke)limiting your alcohol intakefinding ways to manage or avoid stress You can also support your immune health by receiving all routine vaccinations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).How can I tell if my immune system is in tip-top shape
How often you get sick can give you a sense of whether your immune system is in good shape. If you get sick often, you may have a weakened immune system. It’s typical to catch common viruses, such as viruses that cause the common cold, from time to time. However, you should talk with a doctor if you’re sick frequently or become infected with uncommon foreign organisms.Are there certain foods I can eat to help support everyday immune health
Yes, maintaining a well-balanced and nutritious diet is key to maintaining good immune health. A healthy diet should include plenty of:fruitsvegetableslegumeswhole grains Fruits high in antioxidants, such as berries, are particularly helpful in boosting the immune system. Probiotics such as yogurt are also valuable for supporting immune health and can help promote healthy gut flora. A diet that consists of red meat and processed sugars may weaken immune health.Partner tip
Swanson Health offers a wide variety of gummies, including options for supporting immune health. The Elderberry with Zinc & Vitamin C Immune Health supplement is vegetarian and is formulated to help fortify the immune system.How are stress and immune health related What can I do to maintain my health if I m stressed
Stress can have many negative physical effects, including suppressing or weakening the immune system. Finding ways to control or decrease stress levels can help support your immune health. Some strategies you can try include:yogameditationdeep breathing exercises Maintaining a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can also help. Because large amounts of caffeine can impact stress and anxiety levels, decreasing caffeine intake may help reduce stress.What s the link between immune health and energy level
Your immune system requires energy to function properly. If you have a weakened immune system, your body will try to conserve energy to help your immune system fight off infections, which can cause fatigue.Why do some people have strong immune systems while others seem to get sick often
There are many reasons why some people get sick more often than others. For example, an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, poor sleep habits, and poor hygiene can weaken the immune system leading to increased instances of infection and disease. Tobacco smoking, high alcohol consumption, and high stress and anxiety levels can also weaken the immune system. Avoiding these things and maintaining a healthier lifestyle can help support a strong immune system.What are the best strategies for supporting my immune health while sick
When you’re sick, it’s best to continue eating healthy foods and taking in immune-boosting nutrients, including zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, and probiotics. It’s also essential to stay hydrated and conserve energy by getting plenty of rest.If I m immunocompromised are there ways I can support my immune health
It’s important to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and choose other healthy lifestyle habits to support your immune health. Quitting smoking and avoiding or limiting alcohol consumption can improve your immune health. It can also help to get plenty of rest and avoid or find ways to ease stress. Be sure to talk with your doctor about additional ways that you can support your immune health. Dr. Avi Varma is an ABMS board certified family medicine physician and public health advocate working for a nonprofit fighting the HIV epidemic in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Varma is an HIV Specialist (AAHIVS), certified through the American Academy of HIV Medicine.How we vetted this article
SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Immunization schedules. (2022).cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.htmlNutrition and immunity. (n.d.).
hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/nutrition-and-immunity/Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 23, 2022 By Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP Edited By Steph Coelho Copy Edited By Naomi Farr Share this articleBy Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP on September 23, 2022