Let’s Talk About Boosting Your Immune System

With the flu season approaching, you may be wondering if it is possible to skip the sniffles and the high fever this year. If you already have an underlying condition or live with young children or immunocompromised adults, staying disease-free becomes a priority.

Against viruses and bacteria, your immune system is the first line of defense, but how can we make sure that your immunity is not compromised? Our expert at North Tex MedCare Clinic & Urgent Care, Dr. Frank Lee, shares a few strategies to boost your immune system.

Maintain a healthy gut microbiome

Roughly 70% of your immune cells are made in the gut. Disruptions in the microbiome can raise inflammation and even increase your risk for autoimmunity. Common gut disruptors include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Artificial sweeteners
• Antibiotics
• Stress

A diet rich in fermented foods and fiber can help restore balance in the microbiome and support a more robust immune response.

Beware of nutritional deficiencies

A few key minerals and vitamins are known to impact the immune system directly. These include:

• Iron for the growth of new immune cells
• Zinc for the development of T-cells
• Vitamin C for white blood cell support and oxidative stress protection
• Vitamin D for the regulation of immune activity
• B vitamins for the creation of immune cells and antibodies

A balanced diet, including healthy fats, lean meats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables, is often enough to cover your immune-supporting needs, unless a significant deficiency is already present.

Stress management and sleep

While brief moments of stress don’t cause significant harm to the body and can even help motivate you, staying continuously in a fight-or-flight mode can be taxing. 

When your body feels threatened, resources shift away from non-essential activities such as reproduction and immune defense, and toward focus, strength, and fueling the muscles for action. The body does not distinguish between a tight deadline and running from a tiger—the stress response is the same.

Mindfulness meditation, yoga, speaking to a friend, or reaching out to a professional can help you ground yourself, restore your sense of safety, and free up resources to support the immune system.

Flu shots and immunizations

You can train your immune system to fight certain viruses before exposure to them. A good example is influenza, which still affects millions of people every year. Flu shots are the best and safest way to deliver a deactivated form of the virus and provide this training to your immune system, which in turn prevents influenza and its complications. 

Learn more about boosting your immune system

Want to ensure your immune system works at its best?  Contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Allen, Addison, Fort Worth, or San Antonio, Texas. We offer immunizations and personalized support for your immune system.