There are several key takeaways from the pandemic that reared its ugly head and changed our lives forever, one of which is the importance of a healthy immune system. Because after all, a vaccine, social distancing, and mask-wearing can only do so much to protect you from Covid-19 (or any other type of virus!). Of course, the best way to stay healthy and boost your immune system is to do it naturally! Here’s how…

Reduce stress and tension. Did you know that stress drains your ability to stay healthy and strong? In fact, long-term stress promotes inflammation and imbalances of immune cell function. Even little stressors can affect your immunity! To naturally manage anxiety and stress, we recommend meditation, exercise, journaling, yoga, being mindful, or seeing a therapist regularly.  

Get plenty of sleep. Sleep and immunity go hand in hand, and when you don’t enough of it, you’re at a higher risk of illness. Ideally, adults should get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Teens need between eight and ten hours, and younger children and infants should get up to 14 hours per night. Have trouble getting enough zzzzs? Avoid screen time at least one hour before bed, sleep in a dark room, use a sleep mask, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and exercise often. 

Reduce body fat. According to a recent study in Pubmed.gov*, individuals who were obese and received the flu vaccine were twice as likely to get the flu than individuals who also received the vaccine but were at a healthy weight. To reduce body fat, curb your intake of sugar and refined foods, eat a diet that includes whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins, and lots of fruits and vegetables. 

Exercise. Most of us exercise to maintain a healthy weight or prevent conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure but staying fit also contributes to a healthy immune system. Exercise gets your blood moving and helps immune cells regenerate regularly, both of which allow your immune system to do its job more efficiently. Another study from Pubmed.gov** showed that moderate exercise will also increase the effectiveness of vaccines in people with compromised immune systems. To maintain a healthy immune system, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. Better yet, go outside! Staying active outside is another great way to further boost your immune system!

Drink plenty of water. While staying hydrated doesn’t protect you from illness, it does prevent you from becoming dehydrated, a condition that causes headaches and hinders your physical performance, focus, mood, digestion, and hearty and kidney function – all of which can increase your risk of illness. Because water is free of calories, additives, and sugar, it is by far the best way to stay hydrated throughout the day. As a general guideline, you should drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day.

Take vitamin and mineral supplements. Yes, you should supplement, but supplement wisely by taking ones that are FDA-approved and sold by a certified vendor such as our St. Petersburg, Florida chiropractic care center. To boost your natural immunity, we recommend supplements that include Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, elderberry, echinacea, and garlic. Check out the healthy supplements sold at Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness.

Eat superfoods. Superfoods are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that can boost your immune system and protect you from harmful pathogens. The antioxidants in super foods can decrease inflammation by combatting free radicals that build up in your body. This is important because chronic inflammation is linked to several health conditions including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and certain cancers. Also, the fiber in superfoods improves gut health which also boosts immunity and keeps harmful pathogens from entering your body through your digestive tract. And don’t forget about Vitamin C which helps keep viruses at bay! Here’s a list of the best superfoods to boost immunity.

Stay healthy naturally. 

At Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness, we take a natural approach to mental and physical wellness and provide chiropractic solutions to address the unique needs of our patients. To learn more about the services offered at our St. Petersburg, FL chiropractic office, please call (727) 289-9148.

*Increased risk of influenza among vaccinated adults who are obese - PubMed (nih.gov)

**Exercise and the Regulation of Immune Functions - PubMed (nih.gov)