With global health concerns on everyone’s minds, you’re likely prioritizing your well-being and exploring effective ways to stay healthy. Beyond practicing social distancing, there are numerous proactive steps you can take right now to boost your immune system. Here are 12 actionable strategies to help you fortify your body’s defenses:

  1. Practice good hygiene. Of course, thorough hand washing remains a cornerstone of preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms. The CDC recommends scrubbing your hands with soap and warm water for a full 20 seconds. Extend your hygiene practices beyond hand washing by regularly replacing your toothbrush, washing your pillowcases frequently, and sanitizing your phone, all crucial steps to boost your immune system.
  2. Mineralize your water. It’s important to stay hydrated on any day, but especially during cold and flu season and the pandemic we’re currently experiencing. We recommend no less than 48-60 oz. of clean water per day.
  3. Cut out sugar. Sugar is one of the most inflammatory and immune-suppressive foods. While it can be a challenge, do your very best to avoid sugar in all of its processed forms.
  4. Eat more onions and garlic. Did you know that onions and garlic are naturally anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral? Same goes for other members of the Allium sativum family: leeks, scallions, chives and shallots. Increasing intake of these white, pungent vegetables can help you fight infection and strengthen your respiratory system.
  5. Take immune supportive supplements. During times of crisis or active infection, your body needs extra support outside of healthy lifestyle habits. Immune supportive supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, echinacea, elderberry, colloidal silver and many others, can help prevent and fight infection.
  6. Move your body. Your body’s lymph system is the central part of your immune system. One of the best ways to stimulate the lymph system is to move your body. Activities that involve jumping are particularly helpful (jumping on a trampoline or jumping jacks, for example), but any movement that gets your heart rate up is beneficial.
  7. Get adequate sleep. There is a reason why you sleep more when you’re sick. During sleep, your body has a chance to repair and regenerate tissues. Rather than spending energy on waking activities like working and eating, during sleep, that energy can go towards fighting the infection.
  8. Do something to help you de-stress. Stress can negatively impact your immune system and make it harder to fight infection. It is more important now than ever to do everything you can to eliminate unnecessary stress. Whether that’s reading a book, meditating, playing a game with your family or doing nothing at all, give yourself permission to relax.
  9. Spend Time in Nature to Boost Your Immune System: Connecting with nature has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including stress reduction and improved immune function. Spending time outdoors, breathing fresh air, and even getting some sunlight (for vitamin D production) can contribute to a stronger immune response and help you boost your immune system.
  10. Stay Socially Connected (Safely): While physical distancing is important, maintaining social connections is vital for mental and emotional well-being, which indirectly supports your immune system. Connect with friends and family through phone calls, video chats, or socially distanced outdoor interactions. Nurturing these relationships can help reduce feelings of isolation and stress, allowing you to better boost your immune system.

Taking proactive steps to boost your immune system is a powerful way to support your overall health and well-being, especially during challenging times. By incorporating these 12 strategies into your daily life, you can strengthen your body’s natural defenses and feel more resilient. Remember that consistency is key, and even small changes can make a significant difference in your ability to boost your immune system and stay healthy.

Ready to take control of your health and boost your immune system? Start implementing these tips today and share this article with your loved ones to help them prioritize their well-being too!