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Things You Can Start Doing Today That Support Your Immune System

Jul 18, 2024
Things You Can Start Doing Today That Support Your Immune System

Your daily habits greatly affect your immune system health. Learn six strategies you can use in your routine to optimize your immunity and protect your long-term health.

Your immune system always works in the background to protect you from illness. If you’re feeling sluggish or catch colds often, your immune system may need a boost.

At RegenMed Health Centers, we specialize in immune system support to enhance your natural immunity.

Functional and regenerative medicine specialist Ellen Lin, MD, customizes a care plan to your unique health challenges. Dr. Lin provides various services, including intravenous (IV) infusion therapy, to give your body what it needs to thrive.

Additionally, we can provide resources you might need to keep your immune system strong and functioning at peak levels. Here are six things you can start using today to support your long-term immunity.

6 ways to optimize your immune system health

People from all walks of life can benefit from incorporating these easy, immune-boosting activities into their lifestyles:

1. Engage in daily exercise

Exercise offers key support for your immune system health. When moving, your body releases proteins that encourage your immune system to respond quickly to bacteria and viruses. These proteins also help fight inflammation throughout your body.

Walking is a great exercise to incorporate into your daily routine. You can also participate in yoga, cycling, and swimming to support your immune system.

2. Maintain a healthy body weight

Being overweight can reduce your immunity and cause chronic inflammation throughout your body. Losing weight can improve your immune system function and reduce your risk for Type 2 diabetes and other chronic, obesity-related diseases.

If you find it difficult to lose weight independently, Dr. Lin can discuss your options for a customized medical weight loss program.

3. Stay on top of stress

Managing stress is key to maintaining good immune health. Occasional and long-term stress can reduce your immune system's response to infection, leaving you susceptible to frequent colds, inflammation, and diseases like arthritis and lupus.

Many stress reduction techniques, including breathing exercises, meditation, and exercise, can be used in daily life.

4. Get updated on vaccinations

While your immune system is naturally equipped to fight off infections, it also benefits from the added protection that vaccines provide.

Be sure to stay on track with immunizations and boosters to protect you from contagious diseases, including the seasonal flu. We can also recommend additional vaccines you might need if you’re traveling to protect you from diseases more common outside of the United States

5. Practice good personal hygiene

Good daily hygiene can reduce your risk for colds, flu, and other diseases spread by touching contaminated surfaces.

Wash your hands thoroughly after being in public spaces, handling raw meats, and using the bathroom. Avoid touching your face and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

6. Establish a healthy sleep schedule

Getting enough sleep is important for your overall health. If you’re deprived of sleep, it can negatively impact the function of your immune system and other biological systems.

Make a plan to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, including on the weekends. This helps reset your circadian rhythm so you can fall asleep, stay asleep throughout the night, and feel recharged in the morning.

Call RegenMed Health Centers in San Antonio, Texas, today to learn how IV infusion therapy can boost your immunity. You can also book an appointment online.