How to improve your immune system to fight cold flu if you are over 65

Categories

How to improve your immune system to fight cold flu if you are over 65

The immune system is a specialised system in our bodies that works primarily to keep us healthy by fighting infection-causing bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing agents.
The flu may not lead to severe issues for some people, but people 65 and older are at risk of complications. A possible explanation is that older individuals have a weaker immune system.

Here's what you can do if you're over 65 to help boost your immune system's defenses and ward off colds and other viruses.

1. Get a flu vaccination.

One of the most effective methods for safeguarding yourself from the flu is to get your annual flu shot as an immune system booster. The vaccine stimulates your immune system, causing it to produce antibodies that help fight harmful pathogens.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Consume whole foods high in essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, and protein, as well as vitamins C and D and other immune system booster foods. Avoid packaged foods such as cookies, meats, and chips and include more foods for immune system booster.

3. Get plenty of rest.
Sleep deprivation can affect the immune system. Seek medical attention if you have a condition that interferes with normal sleep, such as sleep apnea.

4. Minimize smoking and drinking.
It has been demonstrated that smoking weakens the immune system. Large amounts of alcohol lead to weight gain, which deteriorates immunity. Also, heavy drinking dehydrates the body, which favors the survival and circulation of viruses and harmful pathogens. Caffeinated beverages and other stimulants should be avoided.

5. Deal with stress
Chronic stress can have a variety of negative consequences on the body, such as a reduction in the immune response. Mostly under stress, the body releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol aids the body's response to stressful situations. It also restricts the effective operation of the immune system.

6. Get some light and air
Being outside has numerous health benefits. Many people find that spending time in nature helps them to relax. Another advantage of spending time outside is that moderate sun exposure provides vitamin D.

Improving your immune system, particularly if you're over 65, can help to protect you from flu and other viruses. Staying active, eating a variety of fresh foods, spending some time outdoors in the sun, and having as much quality sleep as possible can always help keep your immune system in a good shape.

Enquire