How to Ramp Up Your Immunity as You Age

Seniors can boost their health and immune system with these tips and suggestions. Don’t fall ill this year just because you’re past the age of 50.

It seems that the most common times you fall ill in your life are when you’re incredibly young and when you’ve started to grow old. While the younger side is due to building up your immune system, the older side is often due to your immune system starting to wear down. Because of that, you can get sick a lot easier, and one cold or flu can really take a turn for the worse if not taken care of properly. To ensure that you keep your immune system healthy and strong, follow some of these tips. Some of them are easier than you may realize!

1. Vaccinations

You’ve likely heard it through most of your life, but getting vaccinated is an excellent method to ward off illness. It’s relatively quick and painless, too. Seniors who have received a flu shot were shown to have a lower chance of becoming ill when flu season hit. This is an easy way to help your immune system out, and all you have to do is visit your doctor or local pharmacy.

2. Eat Nutritionally

Because you’re likely already eating less, the food you do take in has to be rich in nutrients. Everyone knows that vitamin C is one of the best combatants against the cold. It literally works to boost your immune system, so be sure that you receive a healthy dose of this vitamin, as well as fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins E and D, beta-carotene, and zinc to give your immune system the added reinforcement that it needs.

3. Exercise Regardless of Age

No matter how old you are, there is an exercise regime for you. While you may not be lifting weights quite the same as when you were younger, you can benefit from exercise all the same. Regular workouts keep your body fit and help the blood flow through your body. It also keeps your heart healthy and strong. Unclogged and healthy blood flow is critical for a working immune system as blood is what is used to carry those little fighters to the infected parts of your body. Healthy arteries mean those fighters can reach the place of infection quickly and efficiently, and fight off a virus before it can contaminate your body. Even something as simple as taking a walk can help your immune system and keep your body strong.

4. Remain Stress-Free

One of the worst things that you can feel when you’re starting to get sick during flu season is stress. Not only can it have a negative impact on your heart health and blood flow circulation, but it can actually suppress your immune system and help a virus spread through your body and make you sick. So, if you’re stressed, do whatever you can to reduce it. Either change your environment, find a solution for the problem that is causing you stress, or just take some time to regularly meditate, go on a walk, play a sport, or just go out and have nice social time with friends and family. Reducing your stress will allow your immune system to work how it’s supposed to work.

5. Sleep

One of the easiest and best ways to keep your immune system working just fine is to sleep. This is a healthy habit for everyone, regardless of age, to consider. Sleep allows the body to heal and repair itself. It’s basically when your body decides to replenish hormones and make sure all is well. With proper rest, you can more easily handle stress, and sleep can actually help reduce inflammation as well. So, if you feel as though something is coming, take some time to ensure you’re receiving the best amount  of quality sleep.

Take Care of Yourself

By keeping tabs on yourself and following some of these ideas, you can help your immune system remain strong. When the flu season comes along, you’ll be prepared to meet it head-on and thrive.