Improve Your Immunity

A resilient immune system is one of the foundations of health, and like most things in the body, it’s really more of a balancing act – steering clear of either an over or underactive system. Fortunately for most people, the immune system regulates itself. But there are some things that we can do to support its efficacy, especially when the weather is cold or stress is high.

SALUTE THE BASICS
While elaborate self-care rituals can be nourishing in many ways, the most rudimentary lifestyle habits are our biggest allies. When thinking about what you can do to support a healthy immune system, prioritize these habits:

• Get adequate sleep
• Manage stress
• Exercise
• Hydrate
• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of plants
• Consume sugar and alcohol in moderation
• Protect your warmth (bundle up when the weather is cold)

GIVE THE SYSTEM A LITTLE NUDGE
When you start to feel a little drained or want to boost your immunity, try herbs and foods that strengthen and modulate the immune system.

• Vitamin C from whole food sources like citrus, strawberries, rose hips and peppers
• Medicinal mushrooms like reishi, turkey tail and chaga
• Immune boosters and natural antimicrobials such as ginger, elderberry and licorice

My personal at-home essentials for immune support are ginger tea, elderberry syrup and steam inhalation. Interested in more? My favorite book about holistic health is Body Into Balance: An Herbal Guide to Holistic Self-Care by Maria Noël Groves.

– Dr. Jill Beasley, Blackberry Mountain Holistic Health Specialist