Taking care of your immune system is crucial, but it's more complex than we may think.
We've discovered three practical ways to promote healthy living and support your immune system.
1. Keep your stress low
It’s critical to keep your stress levels low, as there are a wide range of illnesses that are linked to emotional stress 1. These include upset stomachs, hives and even heart disease.
Stress is difficult to define and measure, as everyone's stress tolerance levels are different, but staying on top of it is essential. Stress directly weakens parts of your immune system and can increase the risk of infections or reactivations of viruses inside you.
Maintaining stress levels through journaling, meditation and more can help strengthen your immunity.
2. Stay physically active
Your immune system is very responsive to exercise, according to studies from the Columbia University Irving Medical Centre. Moderate exercise has also been shown to improve your immunity’s defence system2.
By sticking to the Australian Government guidelines that recommend you get up to 5 hours of moderate exercise or up to 2.5 hours of vigorous exercise a day, you’ll start to see the benefits of a stronger immune system.
Exercising, according to one study, can also reduce your risk of illness, improve your metabolic health and reduce inflammation.
3. Maintain a healthy diet and consider a supplement
You need a mix of nutrients and foods to help strengthen your immune system. You can help support and strengthen your immune system by eating foods that are high in the following vitamins and minerals, which include 3:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Copper
- Folate
- Iron
- Selenium
- Zinc
It’s also essential to avoid high-sugar and ultra-processed foods, as well as not drinking excess amounts of alcohol to help your immune system stay strong.
If you’re not sure if your current diet is providing you with all of your micronutrients, you could try Herbs Of Gold Zinc Forte + C, which is a delicious raspberry-flavoured powder and can help keep the whole family strong during winter.
The powder includes Zinc, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C, all vitamins and minerals that are essential for immune health during the colder months.
It’s also safe to take during pregnancy and while you’re breastfeeding.
Herbs of Gold Zinc Forte + C is available in your local Blooms The Chemist pharmacy and in our online store. If you have any questions, please visit your local pharmacy and speak to our friendly and knowledgeable Pharmacists and team.
This is a sponsored article in partnership with Herbs of Gold. You can explore more of their products here.
References
1Harvard Health Publishing, How to boost your immune system, accessed 6 March 2024
2Columbia University Irving Medical Center, What you really need to do to boost your immunity, accessed 6 March 2024
3Healthdirect, How to power up and boost your immunity ASAP, accessed 6 March 2024