These tips will help you avoid getting sick

Having to stay in bed with a fever, cough or sore throat is not pleasant for anyone. To prevent this, here are some tips to strengthen your immune system.

It has been scientifically proven that there is a direct link between healthy intestinal flora and a strong immune system, as a large part of the antibody-producing cells are located in the intestine.

Vitamins A, C, D and E, iron, trace elements such as selenium and zinc and various plant substances are particularly important for the immune system. In winter, you should therefore ideally consume as many seasonal fruits and vegetables as possible. For example, cabbage acts as a real antidote to winter infections. Spices such as chili pepper, ginger, horseradish, coriander and black cumin strengthen the immune system.

It is important to hydrate well in winter by consuming water or herbal tea, because heating dries out the mucous membranes and weakens the body’s natural defenses against viruses and bacteria. It is also advisable to ventilate your interior three to four times a day during the cold season to humidify the atmosphere.

Practicing physical activity stimulates blood circulation and helps keep the immune system active. Exercising outdoors is particularly effective at strengthening it. However, be careful not to overexert yourself as this can cause the opposite effect, as several studies have shown. It is therefore important to recover well and follow a moderate training.

For a good immune system, the body needs vitamin D because it increases the activity of T lymphocytes that fight infections. It is certainly possible to absorb it through food, but the sun is the greatest natural source.

Studies confirm it: excessive stress damages the immune system and promotes respiratory infections. According to the University Hospital of Zurich, chronic stress inhibits the proliferation of immune cells and reduces the amount of antibodies in saliva.

Research by researchers from the German universities of Tübingen and Lübeck shows that a good night’s sleep greatly helps strengthen the immune system. T lymphocytes, which circulate in the blood, fight invaders that enter the body. However, if the immune system is weakened due to lack of rest, this defense mechanism works less well.