Things You Should Do If You Want A Stronger Immune System

Do you remember your mother telling you to drink hot lemon with honey when you felt sick as a child (or even as an adult)? We automatically turn to resting and medicine when we feel under the weather. When COVID-19 took over the world, we heard about the importance of a stronger immune system more than ever. 

According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health, a robust immune system can help protect the human body more from the coronavirus because it can make more antibodies to kill the pathogens created by the virus compared to someone with a weaker immune system. People with respiratory or heart diseases have a compromised immune system and are more likely to have more severe complications.

Better Health Channel describes the immune system as a group of cells that protect the body from infections and diseases. If a foreign entity enters the body, the immune system recognizes and destroys it before it can cause more harm. White blood cells and the lymphatic system are some of the key parts of the immune system that detect microbes like "bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi." Those with a weaker immune system are more likely to develop "allergic diseases, immunodeficiencies, and autoimmune disorders." 

Ultimately, the stronger your immune system, the better it is at keeping your body safer and healthier from such diseases and infections. Here's how you can strengthen yours.

A strong immune system is your best bet to having a healthy body, and while it's inevitable to get sick once in a while, you can incorporate some tips into your life to keep your immune system stronger. The key to a strong immune system is to live a healthier lifestyle. This might seem like common sense, but it's, of course, easier said than done. Harvard Health Publishing notes some main ways to maintain a stronger immune system include eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, staying active, sleeping enough, quitting smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, and keeping stress at bay. The outlet also recommends maintaining a healthy weight and staying on top of your vaccines to keep you extra protected from potential infections.

According to Medical News Today, certain foods can help naturally "boost your immunity," so it might not be a bad idea to add them to your diet. Blueberries are a smart choice as they have a flavonoid called anthocyanin, and studies show that people who consume flavonoids have a stronger respiratory system. Furthermore, turmeric has curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Finally, Healthline recommends staying hydrated and taking "supplements wisely," as many supplements don't have scientific proof they work. In fact, the outlet recommends taking vitamin C as it can reduce "the duration of [a] cold," rather than prevent you from catching it to begin with, and zinc, as it can shorten the time you're sick, too.