Experts have revealed three ways that you can help boost your natural immunity to illnesses – and it’s much easier than you might expect.
The immune system plays a vital part in our body, protecting your body from harmful germs, bacteria, and cell changes that can make you feel unwell.
It also helps fight against disease-causing changes in the body, such as cancerous cells, and recognises harmful substances around us.
The immune system, however, can weaken as we get older, which contributes to an increase in infections and disease as we age.
Now, writing in Woman’s Weekly, experts have outlined three suggestions that could help encourage your body’s natural immunity.
Eat Walnuts
Walnuts are a source of folate, vitamin B6 and copper, and a source of iron and zinc. These all help contribute to the body’s natural immunity, reports Woman’s Weekly.
Dr Robert Shmerling, from Havard Medical School, says the oils in the nut help the body’s cardiovascular health. Nuts are also a key component of the Mediterranean diet, which is said to lead to improved health later in life, he says.
Sleep
Your body functions better with enough sleep. It has both physical and mental health benefits.
It plays an important part in your brain and body recovering from the day, reports the Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust.
The NHS says we should be aiming for between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, with children needing between nine and 13 hours a night.
The Oxford Health Trust says a good night’s sleep will also make you feel faster, in terms of better reaction times and coordination, whilst helping your body to recover more quickly.
Go herbal
Echinacea, Woman’s Weekly says, is rich in antioxidants and is traditionally used in the fight against infections and viruses.
It can be purchased in the form of tablets, tinctures, extracts and teas.
Although, the NHS says there is “little evidence” to suggest it boost the immune system. Meanwhile, a 2021 study found it helped reduce the effects of anxiety.