7 Ways To Boost The Immune System Naturally

A person's immune system guards the body against viruses and defends against infections, which is why the best way to prevent illnesses is to strengthen the immune system. Here are some steps to boost a person's immune system.

1.     Eat probiotic foods

Studies show that probiotic supplements can reduce the incidence of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in adults and kids. Since the majority of a person's immune system is in the stomach, eating probiotic foods such as kimchee, yogurt and sauerkraut allow the body to fight diseases.

2.     Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep increases the hormone cortisol, which suppresses the immune function and leaves it in a depressed and vulnerable state. Sleep stimulates and energizes the immune system, which is why the average adult needs between 7 to 8 hours a night.

3.     Avoid smoking and alcohol

Smoking contributes to a wide array of health problems, one of which is deteriorating the immune system. Similarly, chronic alcohol abuse can cause immunodeficiency making the person more susceptible to bacterial pneumonia and tuberculosis according to a 1998 article from the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.

4.     Consume mushrooms

Mushrooms such as shiitake, maitake, button, portabella and chanterelle are great sources of beta glucans that help prevent infections and boost the immune system. A study confirmed that a concentrated extract of shiitake mushrooms improved the immune function of women with breast cancer.

5.     Go for garlic

Garlic is an immune booster and antimicrobial agent, according to Everyday Health. Since cooking garlic can deactivate its key ingredient, it would be best to add freshly grated garlic to meals just before serving.

6.     Get some sunshine

Sunlight triggers the skin's production of vitamin D, which is needed to boost a person's immune system. Just 20-25 minutes of exposure a day is enough to get the sunshine vitamin in your system, according to Natural News.

7.     Exercise regularly

Numerous studies have shown that regular exercise cuts down the number of sick days. Exercise does not have to be strenuous to boost the immune system as moderate yet regular excise may achieve better results.