New Delhi: In today’s world, new health challenges constantly emerge and strengthening the immune system has become very essential. Usually, strong immunity is associated only with the body’s ability to fight infections but it encompasses much more. As per the National Institute on Aging research, immune resilience is crucial for living a long, healthy life. Despite vaccines and medications playing major roles, the foundation of a resilient immune system is largely shaped by regular lifestyle choices. Simple adjustments in diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management can significantly enhance immune function, helping the body not only combat illness but also thrive.
While talking about the role of lifestyle in building immunity, Dr. Sharika Menon, Senior Nadi Vaidya, Sri Sri Tattva, shared some insights with News9Live.
- Proper Nutrition: Fuelling Immune Health: Having a balanced diet of whole plant foods assists in getting a variety of nutrients. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are full of nutrients and antioxidants that can make humans capable to combat deadly microbes. These foods also naturally decrease inflammation by attacking pathogens called free radicals that can accumulate in the body in large amounts.
- Follow Adequate Hydration: Hydration not only makes people immune from germs and viruses but also prevents dehydration. Drinking less water can result in headaches while hindering concentration, mood, digestion, and kidney and heart function. These problems make people more vulnerable to illness. Therefore, it is recommended to drink enough water during the day to eradicate toxins and support immune health.
- Regular Exercise:
- Supporting Immune System: While there are several advantages of doing physical exercise, its key function is maintaining a strong immune system. Exercise produces endorphins, which boost mental health and reduce stress, having a favourable influence on immunity. Consider doing moderate-intensity exercise three to five times each week. Also, individuals can set an aim for 10,000 steps every day.
- Prioritise Stress Management: One of the major threats to an immune system is chronic stress. It releases a hormone called cortisol, which can impair immunological function and increase inflammation. Following are some ways by which people can reduce their stress levels, such as mindfulness, yoga, Pranayama, meditation, or hobbies and leisure activities.
- Practice Good Sleep: Human bodies repair and restore themselves during sleep. During this time, their immune system produces and distributes infection-fighting antibodies. A lack of sleep lowers this defense system, making them more vulnerable to sickness. Therefore, receiving an adequate night’s sleep usually about 7-9 hours provides the immune system sufficient time it needs to recover, making them more resistant to sickness.
- Take Supplements but Wisely: Consulting a lifestyle expert who specialises in pulse diagnosis or nadi pariksha will help you identify the right lifestyle, food, and nutrition choices that are best for you. Supplements include numerous products like herbs, vitamins, and minerals that individuals consume in addition to their usual diet. These products can assist in improving immune function. Additionally, ingredients like Vitamin C, ginger, garlic, flaxseed and nigella oils, curcumin, and probiotics are among the immune-boosting herbs and supplements that are quite effective. Nevertheless, individuals should not use supplements without consulting with a health expert as nowadays the market is flooded with many adulterated and fake products.
In conclusion, it is possible to state that building up the immune system is not about finding quick fixes and pills; it is about making the right choices that affect the body positively. Prioritise sleep, fuel the body with a diet rich in healthy foods, manage stress, remain hydrated, exercise moderately, and take supplements as required. Remember, the immune system is a strong ally and with the correct assistance, people can help it work effectively.
Comments are closed.