How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

When viruses are going around, the best thing we can do is ensure our immune system is working at maximum efficiency. There are many ways to boost your immune system naturally. Here are just a few.

Make sure to get plenty of essential amino acids, Linoleic acid, vitamin A, Folic acid, vitamins B6 & B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Selenium, & probiotics.

Foods rich in these nutrients include: nuts, beans, spinach, orange, red meat, fish, yogurt, lentils, rice, and berries.

If you’re looking to supplement, we recommend this Organic, Plant-Based Zinc by Global Healing. Zinc is excellent for boosting your immune system.

Additional immune support supplements can be found in my FullScript store.

Exercise helps keep the body operating closer to peak condition. In addition, it improves lung function, blood flow, and reduces stress, all of which are essential to fighting disease. Daily walks, family hikes, and even a standing desk can promote healthy movement.

Smoking and vaping impact blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Smoking also contributes to a greater susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia and influenza, and lower levels of protective antioxidants (such as vitamin C), in the blood.

According the the Cleveland Clinic, stress decreases the body’s lymphocytes (white blood cells that fight infection). The lower your lymphocyte level, the greater risk you are at for viruses, including the common cold and the flu.

Routine alcohol consumption ebbs away at the immune system and leaves us vulnerable to disease and infection. Studies show frequent drinkers get sick more often than those who abstain.

The CDC lauds hand-washing with soap and clean water as one of the most important defenses against widespread infection. Proper hand-washing reduces the spread of respiratory illnesses by more than 20%.

Lack of adequate quality sleep raises the likelihood of illness after being exposed to a virus. Sleep adequacy can also affect recovery time. Sleep deprivation may decrease production of protective cytokines, which opens the door for the onset of and sustained illness.

Staying up-to-date on immunizations, labs, and physical examinations ensures your body is up to date on the latest virus protection protocols. A visit with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist keeps your diet in tune with what will keep you feeling healthy and strong.