A Few Things We Should Know About Our Immune System
By Stephen R. Farris
Maintaining a healthy immune system is vital to our everyday health. A healthy immune system can help us fight off infections and diseases.
It's important that we do as much as possible to ensure our immune system stays healthy, in order to protect us, so here's a few things you should read and take note:
Eat Healthier
High-processed can and packaged food products usually contain chemicals and hidden things such as excess sugar and sodium, that can actually work against our immune system. Eating a diet containing green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and lean cuts of meats can help boost the immune system, because these foods are higher in the vitamins and minerals we need, not to mention most are high in antioxidants.
Maintain Stress Levels
Did you know that stress can have an adverse effect on our immune system? According to an article in the October 2015 publication, Current Opinion in Psychology, our immune system depends on the steroid hormone cortisol. When our stress levels rise, so does the cortisol level. If, according to the article, our cortisol level stays at a constant high, it doesn't leave much left for our immune system to do its job. That's one reason we should do our best to keep stress as low as possible. There are a few things you can do to help reduce stress, such as:
- Go for a walk
- Listen to music
- Read a book or two
- Work in the garden
- Do yoga or tai chi
These are just a few examples in reducing stress and keeping your immune system maintained and ready for battle, so to speak.
Rest
We should all be getting enough rest at night. However, it's not always possible due to work, home life, or other factors. But getting enough rest is essential to keeping our immune system healthy and working properly. A good night's rest helps our body produce and distribute cytokines, T cells, and interleukin 12, all of which are key immune cells that help aid in defense of bacterial and virus invaders.
Always remember, when you have questions about your overall health, visit your local chiropractor to find out what tips and suggestions they offer to help you in maintaining a healthy, active, and vibrant lifestyle.
If you're feeling aches and pains in your back, neck, or joints, they can provide treatment options to help give you relief from any of those as well.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Melbourne, Fla.