How to Be Good to Your Body for Immune Support

Treating your body with self-care will not only support mental wellbeing during these unprecedented times, but it will also have positive effects on your immune system.

Get your ZZZs
Your body needs to get adequate sleep to fully rest and repair. Recent research has shown that quality sleep helps support select immune cells in our bodies that help fight infection. On the flip side, sleep deprivation can produce high levels of cortisol, an immune-suppressing hormone. So aim for 7 to 8 hours a night to keep your immune system strong.
Tip: To improve sleep quality, try sticking to a sleep schedule and limiting electronics before bed. schedule and limiting electronics before bed.

Bust Stress
Chronic stress torpedoes your body’s immunity, so it’s essential to keep it well managed in order to keep your immune system happy. Strategies to reduce stress include meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga.

Move Your Body
Moderate physical activity of any kind can optimize immunity. It does this by increasing blood flow and circulation, supporting the exchange of white bloods cells between tissues. To support optimal immune function, aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity, five days a week, unless otherwise advised by your doctor or healthcare team.

Keep Hydrated
When your body is well hydrated, your immune cells are too. Water helps your blood circulate, delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It also helps the body naturally remove waste.