Your immune system is a network of organs, protein, chemicals, and white blood – your body’s first line of defense against bacteria and viruses. Immunity is an important part of health and it’s important to boost your immune system as you grow older.
Why is the immune system important as you grow older? As with many things, immunity changes as you age and your defense system doesn’t work as well as it did when you were younger, as your body produces fewer immune cells when you get older.
You may fall sick more often and recover from illnesses or infections at a much slower rate but luckily, there are lifestyle changes that you can make to improve and boost your immune system. Staying healthy and strong for as long as possible will help you to live a fulfilling life.
While certain medications can help to boost immunity, some people might not want to turn to these methods and prefer more natural ways to improve their immunity.
Well-Balanced Diet
Diet is a main component of health no matter what age you are. Imagine your body runs like a car, the food that you put into your body is the fuel needed to keep you going. Essential nutrients, vitamins, proteins, and minerals are needed to keep a strong immune system, and these can be easily gotten through food rather than supplements. Adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet and eating less processed food can do wonders for you. However, it is good to bear in mind your specific dietary requirements and check with your doctor on whether certain foods might affect medical conditions or medications that you might have.
Exercise
Staying active can help you boost your immune system. Simple activities such as walking or doing some easy workouts at a gym for 15 to 30 minutes a few days a week. Being inactive and having a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to many health problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Sleep
Sleep is absolutely essential to health and it’s a period of time where our bodies can rest and regenerate and recovery from inflammation and infections. Getting eight hours of quality sleep every night is important for older adults. If you are waking up every few hours or struggle with insomnia, you should see a physician in order to help you get the rest that you need.
Drink Lots of Water
Especially for older adults, drinking enough water every day is important. Water is good for energy levels, digestion and can even help you get better quality sleep at night. Water also aids in vitamin and mineral absorption. All these can help to boost your immune system.
Dehydration can be a big issue for older adults as it may lead to dizziness and an increased risk of falling as well.
Manage Stress
High stress for a prolonged period of time can also affect your immune system. Stress may increase cortisol production which may increase inflammation. Inflammation is linked to diseases such as Alzheimer’s, lupus, and heart disease. Talking to your loved ones or friends may help to combat any stress and activities like journaling, exercise, and meditation may help as well.
