HYDERABAD: Are you the one who catches a cold and flu easily? Do you feel fatigued and exhausted most of the time? Do you fall sick very often?
If most of the answers to the above questions are yes then clearly you could have a weak immune system. A strong and well-functioning immune system is the cornerstone of good health that helps in fighting off diseases and infections and allows you to live a healthy life. There are a variety of factors that can result in a compromised immune system and the first step to fight against it is to identify the potential causes. Some of the basic factors that can weaken the immune system could include stress, unhealthy diet, inadequate amount of healthy water intake, lack of sleep and unhealthy lifestyles.
1.Consume healthy drinking water – Healthy water which is enriched with essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins, is extremely crucial and plays a very vital role in building a strong immune system. It infuses energy into the body, controls bacteria, and stimulates brain function as well
2.Reduce Stress & Stay Hydrated- Without enough healthy water, we fall prey to dehydration and other mineral deprived diseases which are linked to stress. Scientific research has drawn a link between dehydration and common problems related to anxiety that most urban dwellers face. Hydration is important for staying healthy and combating fatigue. When we are dehydrated, our cells feel it at the molecular level and communicate this to the subconscious as an underline subtle anxiety or threat to survival. By staying hydrated you will be better equipped to deal with everyday problems
3.Choose water purifiers with benefit of instant cooling- Cold water stimulates the release of substances vital to immune function, such as cytokines that help in enhancing immunity. Opt for water purifiers which give healthy water with the benefit of instant cooling. These purifiers also eliminate the hassle of refilling bottles and putting them in the refrigerator
4.Healthy protein diet – Deficiency of protein leads to reduction of immune cells. Make sure that you eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables and low in saturated fats. For like eggs, fish, vegetables and pulses like lentils, chickpeas and beans which are an excellent source of protein. Eating the right diet and getting the proper nutrition are the keys to a healthy immune system
5.Opt for a reverse osmosis filter-led water purifier- It helps ensure that you are drinking safe water in places where TDS (Total Dissolved Salts) levels in the water is extremely high. However, in regions where the TDS levels are not so high, water can be harmful to your body in the long run as it does not retain the essential minerals required by the body, resulting in severe health problems. With the advancement of technology we are now lucky to be safe from dirty and unsafe water. There are purifiers available in the market with RO+UV Technology that can remove excess TDS, block impurities, chemical contaminants thereby making water healthy and provide dual protection
6.Exercise – Regular exercise improves the blood flow in the body. This leads to the circulation of immune cells throughout the body and perform their job efficiently. Also note that too much exercise can have the opposite effect and reduce one’s immune response
7.Meditation – Meditation is another natural booster. It helps in reducing stress that tremendously weakens the immune system
Start giving your immunity system the priority and live a healthy and happy lifestyle.
The writer is with Eureka Forbes Institute of Environment