- Adequate hydration. Many people are chronically dehydrated and this will impact every cell in your body, including those involved in immune function. Aim to consume around 2l of filtered water a day, more if you exercise and/or drink caffeinated drinks or alcohol.
- Oxygenation. Good blood oxygen levels and circulation are also essential for your cells to function and produce sufficient energy the many biochemical processes that happen in your body. Exercising in the fresh air, particularly around plants, is especially beneficial.
- Get some sun. Many of us have sub optimal levels of Vitamin D. The most natural way to get this is to get outside and expose skin to between 15-30 minutes of sunlight, depending on skin type. (Avoid burning)
- De-stress and get good quality sleep: Poor quality sleep impairs immune function as well as having many other detrimental effects (sleep tips were given in last week’s article). Stress also impacts immune function and we will be looking more in depth at that in the next article.
- Eat the right foods. This is a huge topic but, briefly, foods containing refined sugar have been shown to suppress immune activity. To support optimal immune function, cut out or drastically cut down on processed foods and eat a wide range of different coloured vegetables and low sugar fruit, such as berries and apples. The many different vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients in fruit and vegetables have incredible health properties, including immune support. (Please also see free immune support plan details below).
Liz Hutson is a certified Nutritional Therapist and is offering some great health and lifestyle advice and support during these difficult times. For more information head to https://growinghealthier.co.uk/7-day-immune-support-plan/ where Liz is also offering a free, 7 day immune system support plan.