How to strengthen the immune system

What is the immune system

The immune system protects the body from all organisms, including viruses, bacteria and fungi, that can cause inflammation and infection. The immune system, which is made up of organs and cells distributed throughout the body, activates white blood cells and specific antibodies that rid the body of harmful agents. 

Immune defences can be weakened by a stressful and unhealthy lifestyle, allowing the body to fall ill.

The lifestyle that keeps your immune system up

A correct and healthy lifestyle is essential to maintain a high immune system: a balanced diet, daily physical activity, the right amount of rest and recreation time, and good quality sleep.

Let's get into the specifics of making the right choices and making the necessary changes in our daily lives.

Nutrition: 'yes' and 'no' foods

Nutrition is the first area of our lives to which attention should be paid in order to alleviate inflammatory states in the body. 

”Yes” Foods

Seasonal fruit and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals, dried fruit rich in antioxidants, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, wholegrain cereals rich in fibre, fish rich in omega 3, pulses, roots such as ginger, turmeric and parsnips with purifying properties and all the aromatic herbs useful for adding flavour without salting food too much. 

“No” Foods

White sugar, excessive salt, packaged and ready-to-eat foods high in sugar, salt and preservatives, sugary drinks, processed sweets, red meat, cheese and dairy products that tend to inflame the body, baked goods made from refined flours, cold meats and sausages. In general, it is advisable to reduce consumption of packaged and preserved foods.

Well-being habits

Stress should never be underestimated, as it is one of the main factors in lowering the immune system: it is important to be able to stop when you feel tired, to balance work and rest hours and to allow yourself time for self-care. Good physical activity, moments of meditation and relaxation not only improve our quality of life, but also strengthen the immune system.

Natural remedies that boost the immune system

Nature offers us its support with many natural remedies that can strengthen the immune system and relieve inflammatory conditions such as colds and seasonal flu.

Here are some of the useful ingredients for strengthening the body's defences that we use in our supplements:

Acerola Cherry

Acerola is a fruit rich in vitamin C, more so than oranges and lemons. It counteracts oxidative stress, improves skin health and boosts the immune system. It provides zinc, magnesium and potassium. Useful for preventing and coping with seasonal ailments.

Siberian Ginseng

Eleutherococcus or Siberian ginseng is an adaptogenic plant, i.e. a remedy that is able to respond extensively to states of intense mental and physical stress. Eleutherococcus helps to alleviate states of anxiety, mental fatigue and protects the nervous system. It has tonic and energising properties that provide support for the immune system.  

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is recognised for its antimicrobial activity. It is able to combat a wide range of pathogens, contributing to the functionality of the respiratory tract and strengthening the immune system. It also promotes wound healing and strengthens the gastrointestinal system.

Acerola Cherry, Eleuterococcus e Manuka honey play their synergistic role in the formulation of Manuka Defense Plus.

Sources and insights

• MSD Manual, Defenses Against Infection

• Pubmed, Antibacterial activity of Manuka honey and its components: An overview

• Pubmed, Acerola, an untapped functional superfruit: a review on latest frontiers
  
  

Article written in collaboration with benesserecorpomente.it