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Natural Ways to Support Your Immune System

May 16, 2024
Natural Ways to Support Your Immune System

If you often get colds or infections, it may be due to a weak immune system. Learn some natural strategies you can use now to boost your immune health in the long run. 

Your immune system is responsible for fighting off illnesses to keep you healthy. Even if you live a generally healthy lifestyle, it is wise to ensure your immune system has what it needs to function optimally.

At RegenMed Health Centers, we specialize in customized immune system support services to help you thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Ellen Lin, MD, offers natural solutions, including intravenous (IV) infusion therapy and medical weight loss, to strengthen immunity and revitalize overall wellness. In addition to these treatments, there are also steps you can take now to build a stronger immune system.

The importance of a healthy immune system

Your immune system protects your body from bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other substances that are harmful to your health. Your immune system includes your skin and various mucus membranes that prevent substances from entering your body.

Other parts of your immune system include:

  • Mucus
  • Stomach acids
  • Bone marrow
  • Spleen
  • Tonsils
  • Thymus gland
  • Lymph nodes

These parts all work together to fight off disease-causing germs and eliminate them from your body. They also fight against cellular changes that occur when you have cancer and other diseases.

Signs your immune system is weak

When your immune system becomes weak, you may often feel run down and frequently get sick with colds, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues.

Poor immune system function can also delay development in young children and contribute to autoimmune disorders in people of all ages.

Other symptoms of a weak immune system include:

  • Cold hands
  • Dry eyes
  • Skin rash
  • Hair loss
  • Swallowing problems
  • Unexplained weight changes
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet

If you have any of these symptoms, Dr. Lin can order blood tests to evaluate the infection-fighting protein levels in your blood. She also provides customized care plans to boost your immunity with IV infusions, medical weight loss, and hormone replacement therapy.

4 natural ways to keep your immune system strong

Many factors, including your lifestyle and your diet, influence your immune system. Here are four natural ways to jumpstart your immune system function before you develop uncomfortable symptoms:

1. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet includes fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, fat-free dairy, and lean proteins. Certain foods, including saturated fats, sugar, and salt, must also be avoided.

If you’re not getting enough nutrients from your normal diet, Dr. Lin can recommend a dietary supplement you can take to increase your intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

2. Get up and move

Daily physical activity is important for protecting your energy levels during the day and getting good sleep at night. Exercise also makes maintaining a healthy body weight easier to prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

Engage regularly in aerobic and strength-training exercises to stay fit and strong. If you’re limited by medical issues, Dr. Lin can recommend activities to protect your immunity and overall well-being.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking can lessen your immune system’s ability to fight off diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. This bad habit can also increase your risk for cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature death.

If you struggle to quit on your own, you can speak with Dr. Lin about smoking cessation resources to help you kick the smoking habit for good.

4. Follow a healthy sleep schedule

Getting restful sleep each night helps your body recharge and strengthens your immunity. Conversely, a chronic lack of sleep can weaken your immune system and lead to chronic pain and other health complications.

Establish a sleep schedule that ensures you get 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Be sure to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends, to support your body’s sleep cycle.

Call Regen Med Health Centers in San Antonio, Texas, today to schedule an immune support consultation. You can also book an appointment online.