Why is it important to improve our immune system?

It is important to improve the immune system because a strong immune system is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing the development of various diseases. When the immune system is functioning properly, it is able to quickly and effectively identify and attack harmful viruses and bacteria, that enter the body. This helps to prevent the development of infections and illnesses.

When the immune system is weakened, it is less able to protect the body from these viruses and bacteria which can lead to an increased risk of infection and illness. Additionally, a weakened immune system can also make it more difficult for the body to fight off existing infections, making recovery from illness slower and more difficult. Therefore, by supporting and improving the immune system, you can help to protect yourself against various diseases and infections and improve your overall health and well-being.

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens and other foreign invaders. While there is no single "cure" for strengthening the immune system, there are several natural strategies that can help to support and boost its function.

Customers continue to ask for natural supplements to support their immune system all throughout the year, not just in Winter.

What can we do to support our immune system?

One of the most important things you can do to support your immune system is to eat a healthy and balanced diet. This means getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, while limiting your intake of processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats. Some specific foods that are particularly good for immune health include:

Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to boost the production of white blood cells, the cells that help to fight off infections.

Berries: Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to support the immune system. Try adding some frozen berries to smoothies.

Leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are packed with vitamins and minerals that can help to support the immune system, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc and selenium. Get these into soups so the kids don’t realise they are eating them. Wassen Selenium ACE +D is a handy one-a-day supplement that you can take if you find it hard to get the green leafy vegetables into your diet.

Garlic: Garlic has been shown to have antimicrobial properties and can help to boost the production of white blood cells. Did you ever try fermented Black Garlic? It is delicious. If you like to take garlic as an extra supplement during the Winter months Terranova Fermented Black Garlic FBG22™ is an excellent choice.

Turmeric: Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and contains a compound called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to support the immune system. Try making “Golden Milk”, with Sonnentor Organic Turmeric Latte.

Other lifestyle factors

In addition to eating a healthy diet, there are several other natural strategies that can help to support your immune system. These include:

Getting enough sleep

A lack of sleep can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and make it more difficult for the immune system to function properly. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Create a bedtime routine, a consistent bedtime routine can help to signal to your body that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This can include activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or doing some light stretching. Avoid stimulating activities before bed such as watching TV, using your phone or computer, or playing video games can make it more difficult to fall asleep. Try to avoid these activities for at least an hour before bed. Create a comfortable sleep environment this can help to promote a restful night's sleep. This includes keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool, and using comfortable bedding. Additionally, it's important to make sure that your mattress and pillows support your body and prevent discomfort during the night. There are many supplements that can help with sleep problems. Melissa Dream contains L Theanine, an amino acid that starts to work within 40 mins of taking it. It helps to switch off an overactive mind.

Exercising regularly

Regular physical activity can help to boost the production of white blood cells and improve the overall function of the immune system. There is nothing like getting out into the fresh air for a brisk walk. It's. not just your mind that will thank you for it, your immune system will too. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Manage stress

Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and make it more difficult for the immune system to function properly. Try to find ways to manage stress, such as through yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques. Try practicing mindfulness, it can help to reduce stress and anxiety by teaching you how to focus on the present moment and let go of negative thoughts and worries. It can also improve emotional well-being by helping you to become more self-aware and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Regular mindfulness practice can also improve physical health by reducing inflammation, lower blood pressure and may improve the quality of sleep.

We all know that smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is bad for us. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in our gut and help to support the immune system by improving the balance of bacteria in the gut and strengthening the gut barrier, which helps to protect the body from harmful pathogens. Udo's Choice Super 8 Immune has 42 billion 'friendly' bacteria per capsule, 15mg of Vitamin C and 8 strains of lacto and bifido bacteria

Herbs and supplements

Herbs, such as echinacea and elderberry, and supplements, such as vitamin D and zinc, are among our most popular immune-boosting natural remedies. A Vogel Echinacea can help to shorten the duration of the common cold and flu, and reduce symptoms, such as sore throat (pharyngitis), cough, and fever. One Nutrition Revive & Go is a popular supplement that contains Vitamin C and Zinc.

Overall, supporting your immune system naturally is about making healthy lifestyle choices. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercise regularly, managing stress, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, taking probiotics, and even trying some herbs or supplements can all help to support your immune system.

Don’t try to make too many changes at the same time. Start small and make the changes slowly until they become habit.

It's always important to talk to your healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.