6 habits to boost the immune system

Strengthening the immune system is essential to avoid numerous diseases, especially in the cold season or when one is subjected to a lot of stress. The immune or immune system It is the body's natural defense against infections. Therefore, if it is weakened, it is easier to fall ill.

The stressful rhythm that today characterizes our daily life, exposure to biological factors such as pollution, viruses, bacteria or fungi, they endanger the resistance of this immune system that we have, and as a result, expose our health.

To prevent the body from being a victim of any infection, in this space we want to share a series of healthy habits in order to enhance the immune system. However, first we must know better how this natural defense system works.

What is the immune system? How does it work?

Being immune means being protected. Therefore, it makes sense that the body system that helps fight diseases is called the immune system. This system is formed by a network of cells, tissue and organs They work together to protect the body.

White blood cells or leukocytes are part of this defense system. There are two basic types of these cells responsible for fighting germs:

• Phagocytes: they phagocytize or "devour" pathogenic microorganisms.
• Lymphocytes: they allow the body to remember the invaders and recognize them in case they try to infect the body again, triggering a faster defense response. There are B and T lymphocytes

When a foreign body, called an antigen, enters the body, several different types of cells collaborate to identify it and react between it. These cells trigger the production of antibodies in B lymphocytes.

The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against foreign agents that can cause diseases.

Antibodies are specialized proteins that bind to specific antigens. Once B lymphocytes localize to a specific antigen, they develop a memory of that antigen and make antibodies against it the next time that strange substance enters the body.

That is why when a person gets sick with chicken pox, for example, the most usual thing is that it does not return to the same disease. As for T lymphocytes, also known as killer cells or k cells, they help destroy antigens when antibodies are not able to destroy it without help.

However, there are many more mechanisms and cells involved in this system, but the important thing to understand why the habits that we will explain below are beneficial to enhance the immune system, are these concepts mentioned.

6 habits to boost the immune system

The immune system depends approximately 75% on factors related to quality of life. So, It is very important that you try to adopt a healthy habits as can be the following.

1. Increase zinc consumption

Zinc is one of the most important nutrients to have a strong immune system.

Zinc is a potent supporter of several different immune functions, since helps regulate the production of cells in this defense system. It is essential for the formation of DNA and, in fact, plays an important role in the production of white blood cells.

Read also: Everything you need to know about DNA

2. Consume the necessary calories

When you do not consume the necessary calories, the body has an energy deficit. The energy available will use it for the proper functioning of vital organs, like the heart or the brain, so the immune system operates with a deficit.

3. Rest properly

If you do not rest enough, the immune system is also compromised, giving entry to colds, respiratory infections and other annoying diseases. Sleep problems can cause a considerable decrease in the number of cells that make up this system.

4. Have sex

Have sex in the usual way it greatly enhances the body's defense mechanisms human face common diseases such as the cold.

Interestingly, sexual intercourse is very beneficial to stimulate the functions of the immune system.

5. Regularly practice physical exercise

In general, it is preferable to practice some type of aerobic exercise that allows moving many parts of the body at the same time, such as swimming or riding a bike. The intensity of the exercise must be moderate, always avoiding overexertion.

If you're not used to exercising, you should start practicing it in moderation, adapting it to your physical condition and age. Gradually you can increase the intensity of the exercise.

You may also be interested in reading: Food for after physical exercise

6. Do not forget the vitamins

Other suitable nutrients to boost the immune system are:

• Vitamin C: reduces the duration and severity of colds and flu.
• Vitamin A: helps to maintain natural barriers against infections.
• Vitamin E: increases the immune response.
• Other vitamins: Group B vitamins are of special importance

As you can see, it is enough to practice very simple habits to boost the immune system naturally. Keep it in mind now and note that they are suitable to promote your well-being.