Do you find yourself falling sick so easily? Infections being treated with a complete round of antibiotics only for it to return after a short while? Recurrent infections are becoming a commonly seen thing in patients with multiple symptoms. Some infections can become recurrent, including upper respiratory tract infections, flu, and ear infections. One thing is for sure… Your immune system is compromised and is not functioning properly.

There are several factors that can cause the immune system to weaken, and these factors are pretty common. They are stress, inadequate sleep, poor nutrition, and lack of physical activity. Another one is frequent antibiotic use which causes the bacteria to evolve and become immune to the medicine. It is alarming to know that some antibiotics are prescribed also to patients with viral infections. Antibiotics have zero effects on viruses, which cause colds, flu, and URTIs.

Apart from the bacteria becoming immune to the antibiotics, taking these prescriptions also create an imbalance in the microbiota — the good bacteria in your guts. And when the become imbalanced, immunity response suffers.

The best defense against infections?

To boost your defense system. Pretty easy answer, but how can you do it effectively? There are several natural and safe methods:

Natural Herbal Medicines

• Reishi. It is a medicinal mushroom that releases potent antiviral activity for faster recovery.
• Astragalus. It is an herb known for its ability to enhance the immune system and restore the energy levels so you can spring back to your daily activities as if you didn’t just fall ill.
• Coriolus. Another medicinal mushroom that helps increase immune cell production

Changes in lifestyle

• Sleep. Have 8 to 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep in the evening.
• Load up on fresh fruits and vegetables. Plant-based foods are rich in immune boosting nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc.
• Increase intake of garlic and ginger. Garlic is known for its being an antimicrobial agent, and immune boosting abilities. Ginger warms up the body and repels illness by reducing inflammation.
• Drink sufficient fluids, especially water. Stay hydrated, especially when sick when we tend to stay in bed and forget to drink water.
• Destress. Take a break. Rest. Give your body a chance to recover from stress. Participate in yoga classes, meditation, and deep breathing excercises.

Dynamic Duo

• Vitamin C. Citrus fruits especially oranges, red and yellow capsicum, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, tomato, and brussel sprouts are some of the good sources of vitamin C. Supplementing with high dosage can do wonders to your immune system
• Zinc. Seafood, meat, spinach, seeds such as pumpkin seeds and sesame, nuts such as cashews, beans such as chickpease and adzuki, and wheat germ are some of the good sources of zinc. Zinc releases white blood cells to fight off infection at the very first signs of infections whether viral or bacterial.

If you are having trouble getting these infections off of your body, it is best to speak with a practitioner the soonest possible time. You will feel more vibrant and healthy with the correct immune support so you are able to enjoy a healthy and happy life.