Buzz
Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and many places seem to be in the cold and flu season, with many of our friends falling ill. Here are some ways to enhance the immune system, a way to deal with cold and flu, my friends.
The immune system is the body's defense system, working continuously 24/7 to help us fight against viruses and bacteria - the agents of disease. Inadequate nutrition, prolonged stress, and poor sleep quality can impact the immune system.
Here are 10 ways to enhance our body's immune function, according to findapharmacy.com.au and various other sources.
Vaccination
According to the World Health Organization, flu vaccination reduces the mortality rate from flu by 70-80% and provides protection effectiveness of 80-90%.Therefore, those at risk of flu and high complication risk should get a flu shot annually.
Hand Washing
It's important to wash each finger, between the fingers, and the palm, not just the palm itself. And wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.Viruses can survive outside the body, on hands when we shake hands with someone who is sick, so wash your hands regularly and properly.
Maintain Moisture in Living Spaces
Viruses struggle to survive in air with humidity, so create moisture in your home or office. Also, keep your nasal passages moist in places with dry air.Get Adequate Sleep
Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can reduce immune system function. Cytokines, a type of protein produced during sleep, help the body resist infection risks. Therefore, getting enough sleep is crucial during flu season.Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins out of the body and thins mucus in the respiratory tract. If you have a cold, mucus production increases to combat infection. Keeping a thin layer of mucus can help the body easily expel mucus when coughing or sneezing.Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
A healthy and balanced diet consisting of whole foods, vegetables, fruits, and grains is crucial for the immune system. A significant portion of the immune system resides in the digestive tract, so maintaining a healthy and well-functioning intestinal lining is essential.Regular Exercise
Regular exercise at a moderate level helps enhance both physical and mental health. Exercise increases blood flow, pumping white blood cells throughout the body. White blood cells are the body's first line of defense against disease-causing agents, playing a crucial role in the immune system. They move through the blood and tissues, detecting external agents such as fungi, parasites, viruses, and bacteria.
