9 Ways to Weaken Your Immune System
Last month, we explored ways people who are immunocompromised (and people in general) can improve their immune system by avoiding illnesses with the post 11 Ways to Help Prevent Infectious Diseases.
So now, it’s only fitting to discuss how we can hinder our immune system. Like last time, I’ve done the research for you and came up with 9 different ways that can hurt your immune system. So, let’s get started.
9 Ways to Weaken Your Immune System.
1. Lack of Sleep.
Not getting enough sleep can make you more susceptible to becoming sick, and it may take longer to get better. *1
The reason is that your body only releases proteins that help the immune system, called cytokines, while asleep, along with the white blood cells (T-cells) that perform a vital part in your body’s immune reaction to an infectious disease. *2
As a result, not getting enough sleep causes your body to be unable to make as many antibodies that help defend against illness. *2
According to the National Sleep Foundation, *3 adults should aim for at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, and teenagers should aim for 8 to 10 hours.
2. Anxiety.
Throughout life, everyone will experience some form of anxiety. But did you know that having anxious thoughts can weaken your immune system in less than 30 minutes? *4
I sure as hell didn’t.
Also, experiencing stress nonstop can cause even more damage to your health by making it harder for you to steer clear of viruses. *5 So if your anxiety becomes worse, make sure to talk to your doctor about treatment options.
3. Low Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is good for promoting strong bones and healthy blood cells and enhancing your immune system. *6 You can receive Vitamin D through foods such as eggs, fatty fish, cereal, and milk.
Another fundamental way of obtaining Vitamin D is through sunlight. Spending 10–15 minutes outside basking in the sun a couple of times a week will be…
