Our bodies have an incredible ability to care for themselves. We’re born with the ability to heal ourselves, repair injuries, and fight off infection. But sometimes your body needs a helping hand, and luckily there are steps you can take to increase your natural self-healing ability. Keep reading to learn more about how your body heals itself and what you can do to support your immunity.
How your body heals itself
Every cell in your body has the ability to heal itself. When cells are unhealthy, your body replicates and replaces the damaged ones. If you break a bone, new cells immediately grow to heal the damage. If you get a cut, platelets in your blood cause it to clot and stop bleeding while new cells form to repair the tissue damage. Our bodies are in a constant state of decay and renewal, with daily wear and tear harming our current cells and new, healthy ones forming.
Our immune system is another line of defense keeping our bodies safe. This system protects us against foreign bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Mucus collects particles and prevents them from damaging your body while acids in your organs destroy unwanted organisms. White blood cells called phagocytes kill off foreign bodies by inducing a fever, which is your body’s way of raising its temperature to kill off viruses and bacteria. The high temperature also prompts cellular processes that fight infection. Even inflammation is your body’s natural reaction to an injury or disease, signaling your immune system to focus on the damaged area.
Your body protects and heals itself in many ways every single day. But there are things you can do to help support your body and improve its self-healing ability. Keep reading to learn more.
Eat a healthy diet
While there isn’t any single magic food that will give you a perfect immune system, maintaining a healthy diet is the key to supporting your body’s healing process. Eating a balanced diet of nutritious fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide your body with the vitamins and nutrients it needs to keep your immunity strong. Changing your diet can also help improve your balance of gut bacteria, which is vital for strengthening your immune system.
Get plenty of sleep
Getting enough sleep is also key to supporting your body’s healing capacity. Not getting enough rest on a regular basis can cause body-wide inflammation. This increases your risk of getting sick and makes it more difficult for you to recover. Getting plenty of rest can boost your immunity and ensures your body has the strength to fight illness if you’re already sick. Adults should sleep at least seven hours every night, so ensure you get enough restful sleep each night by creating an ideal sleeping environment that is completely dark and cool in temperature. Try reducing screen time before bed, going to bed at the same time every day, and exercising habitually for the most restful sleep.
Exercise regularly
Exercise has many benefits for your body, mood, and overall wellbeing. It causes your immune cells to circulate and boosts their ability to fight off germs. Exercising 150 to 300 minutes a week, about 20 to 40 minutes per day, can increase your body’s disease-fighting power. Regular, moderate exercise can also limit inflammation and aid your immune cells in regenerating. Consider adding physical activity to your daily routine with a brisk walk, jog, bicycle ride, or hike.
Focus on stress relief
Chronic stress can take a dangerous toll on your body. It interrupts your immunity by altering your cortisol levels, which can prompt inflammation, gradually deteriorating your immune system. Looking to reduce your stress levels? Consider meditation, yoga, exercise, and other mindfulness practices. Reach out to a licensed therapist or mental health professional for even more support.
Take supportive supplements
Certain supplements can improve your immunity, too, but be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin taking any vitamins or supplements. Some can interact negatively with your current prescriptions or may be unnecessary for you. Recovery-boosting supplements include Vitamin C, D, and E, zinc, elderberry extract, echinacea, and goldenseal root extract.
When to see a doctor
While the human body does an incredible job sustaining itself, sometimes it needs a helping hand. If you are currently ill or get sick frequently, schedule an appointment with your doctor. They will advise you on how to boost your immune system and recover from constant sickness.
Your body is great at healing and protecting itself, but there are ways to make it even better. By using the methods above and talking to your doctor, you can improve your natural immunity and support your body. In no time, you will feel healthier than ever before.
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