By Shelly Anglin-Smith
When Covid-19 first made its appearance in various countries worldwide, it had hundreds of people scrambling to purchase vitamin supplements as well as other products believed to boost or support one’s immunity. One concept that has been brandished about quite a bit since then is ‘having a strong immune system’. But what does that really mean?
The immune system is a complex structure of antibodies, networks, complex proteins, organs, and white blood cells, all dependent on each other. Sections of the system behave like actual barriers to stop bacteria and viruses from getting to organs such as your brain. Others search for and eliminate invaders from your body. To get and keep your immune system in fighting shape requires dedication, but anyone can do it by sticking to these simple practices.
Stress Less.
Stress drains your energy, try to empty your life of the things that stress you out while including plenty of self-love practices in your lifestyle. This may be something as simple as reading a good book or cuddling with a pet or be as extensive as a spa day. Ditch negative emotions like hate, anger and being unforgiving. These lower your immunity.
Get enough sleep.
Sleep is the process by which the body regenerates itself. Studies show, people who don’t get enough sleep or quality sleep are more prone to getting sick when exposed to a virus, nor do they recover as quickly. During sleep, your immune system releases proteins called cytokines. Certain cytokines need to go up in number to deal with inflammation, infection or the effects of stress. Additionally, skimping on sleep lowers the number of infection-fighting cells and antibodies. Therefore you miss out on both the regenerative activities carried out in sleep and lowering your immunity.