Flu season is rearing its ugly head again, and this time, it has an ally in COVID-19. Thankfully, there are bodies that are extremely resilient and can fight off infections. It's just much easier for your body to do when you have a healthy immune system. Boosting your immune system, especially during the winter, can help prevent contracting the common cold, flu, or even COVID-19. Learn how to increase immune system power with these healthy tips!
Kick Up the Spice
If things are getting cold outside, it's time to heat things up inside. Ignite your immune system by adding the warming qualities of select herbs and spices to a healthy diet.
Infuse your teas, soups, and sauces with gut-warming spices, like:
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Star Anise
- Cumin
- Lemongrass
- Lemon
- Cayenne Pepper
Many of these herbs promote thermogenesis in the system. They activate cells, which boosts your metabolism. An efficient metabolism comes with many immune-boosting health benefits, including decreased insulin resistance, improved fat burning, and other anti-inflammatory properties.
Not a fan of spicy things? No worries! Many of these healing herbs come in supplement form. Tranquility Labs' Turmeric Cucurmin 1000 contains 95% curcuminoids in its formula, along with enhanced bioavailability thanks to a proprietary black pepper blend.
Studies on curcuminoids show that these compounds can help decrease inflammation caused by immune responses. When immune cells are no longer wasting their resources on false alarms caused by diet, lack of exercise, or medications, it improves overall immune function. Your body will be more adept at handling pathogens with the support of turmeric for the immune system.
Get A Sweat On!
There are so many health benefits to working out. For one, exercise increases immune system function.
Exercise moves blood throughout the system. This movement helps flush out bacteria, pathogens, and free radicals through our sweat.
Additionally, exercise increases good stress to the body. These can help the body create antibodies and improve cellular function and metabolism.
Even though it's winter, you must get regular exercise in. Go for runs outdoors, join a gym, or try some online pilates videos. Get active and gain natural immunity!
Bottoms Up on Water
Water is a catalyst for cells in our bodies to function. When we are dehydrated, they become dehydrated, too.
Dehydration is easier to achieve during the winter than one would think. The average household has its furnace running over 12 hours per day during the winter. All the water in your body is practically boiling away!
You must replenish the water so that your immune cells remain strong and ready to take on all challenges. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day unless directed otherwise by a physician.
Also, avoid drinking from plastic water bottles. Many water bottles are made with BPA, a chemical that mimics estrogen. BPA exposure has been linked to infertility, neurodevelopmental issues, and more.
These physiological changes will only add stress to the body that will ultimately suppress your immune system. Hydrate wisely with filtered water in reusable, BPA-free containers.
Pack On Fruits and Veggies
If you're really wondering, "how can I increase my immune power naturally?" Look no further than what's on your plate. It should be an assortment of bright colors and raw foods.
Fruits and vegetables are teeming with antioxidants with a variety of anti-inflammatory properties. Each color denotes a different class of antioxidants.
Try some of these colorful meals out:
- Tri-color quinoa bowl with rainbow chard, chickpeas, edamame, raisins, and orange-miso dressing
- Purple kale salad with green apples, cranberries, walnuts, sunflower seeds, orange peppers, and avocado dressing
- Beef stew with sweet potatoes, okra, purple onions, and acorn squash.
Think some of these things don't go together? That's the fun of cooking. Break the rules and discover your own flavor profiles!
Take Olive Leaf Extract
There isn't a one-size-fits-all supplement to increase the immune system naturally. However, olive leaf extract is one of the best tools to help you meet those goals.
Research shows that those who follow a Mediterranean Diet have a longer life expectancy and quality of life. There are fewer incidences of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. That's because their diet is rich in healthy fats, namely omega-3 fatty acids.
One of the most heralded plants in the Mediterranean is the olive tree. Olive leaves contain unique antioxidant compounds, including oleuropein.
Studies show that oleuropein helps support the immune system by suppressing inflammation and improving blood flow throughout the body.
Use a proprietary extract of olive leaf to boost the immune system naturally.
Experience the benefits of olives for wellness with Tranquility Labs' Olive Leaf Extract. This natural supplement promotes strong vascular function, improved metabolism, and antiviral benefits for a healthy immune system.
Essential Takeaways:
- A healthy diet of fruits, veggies, and healthy fats will support your immune system
- Increasing heat through spices and exercise can increase immune system strength
- Olive leaf extract is one of the best immune-boosting supplements
