Eating well, reducing stress and exercising are key ways to support the immune system.
However, these aren't the only ways to help boost immunity, with Hannah Braye, a technical advisor at Bio-Kult, noting there are many other surprising methods to optimise your health and wellbeing.
Singing
"Singing can stimulate the vagus nerve - the longest nerve in the body. By stimulating the vagus nerve, we can switch our autonomic nervous system into parasympathetic mode ('rest and digest') as opposed to our sympathetic mode ('fight or flight'). In today's society, many people can get stuck in sympathetic mode, which unfortunately has been associated with a suppressed immune system as well as increased inflammation," Braye said.
"So, why not take every opportunity to sing your heart out whether driving, doing the housework or, of course, while in the shower, to help support both your wellbeing and your immune system."
Coastal living
Ongoing exposure to air pollution can increase the toxic burden on the body, which can lead to rising levels of inflammation and a disrupted immune system.
Yet, a study assessing the risk of severe COVID-19 in different areas of Italy found that provinces near the sea had reduced air pollution concentrations and a small but statistically significant effect on the severity of the virus.
"Whilst we may not all have the opportunity to up sticks and move to the seaside, planning more regular trips to the beach on our days off to breathe in the sea air could potentially help support our immune system throughout the year," the expert noted.
Boost gut microbes
Gut bacteria play an essential role in supporting our immune system, and we can assist our resident bacteria by taking a multi-strain live bacteria supplement each day, as well as encouraging a healthy microbial balance in the gut by regularly consuming traditionally fermented foods, Braye said.
"Why not start your day with oats and fruit topped with kefir? Or add a portion of sauerkraut or kimchi to your lunch and dinner? Also, look to switch alcohol (which can depress the immune system) for kombucha, a delicious slightly fizzy fermented tea drink. These foods can be safely used alongside live bacteria supplements," she suggested.
Turmeric lattes
Next time you head to the local coffee shop, or better still, when making your own warming drink at home, enjoy a turmeric latte to help support your immunity. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, which has powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
"To make your own, slowly heat two cups of your choice of milk (whole, coconut, almond, etc.) with one and a half teaspoons of ground turmeric or freshly grated turmeric, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, one-inch piece of fresh, peeled ginger, one tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and a pinch of black pepper," Braye added.
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