Immunity is an irreplaceable gift of the nature that saves you from various diseases. Otherwise, it would have been impossible to fight disease-causing agents, and we would be sick all the time. For this vital role, it is essential to take care of your immune system.
Various factors can make your immunity weaker and render you susceptible to diseases. Some people carry out activities that damage their immune system unknowingly. Let’s look at a few everyday habits that directly harm your immunity.
Taking Too Much Caffeine
High intake of caffeine can induce a stress response and release of stress hormones. These hormones weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to infections and diseases. So, ensure that your caffeine intake is moderate.
Intaking High Amount of Refined Sugar
Refined sugar is chemically treated, and it is not good for your health. High sugar intake is associated with a weaker immune system. People who tend to use refined sugar regularly fall sick easily. It is better to replace it with small amounts of brown sugar. The best option is to eat fruits as a dessert.
Sleeping Lesser than Required
You must have noticed that you fall sick after too much exertion without proper sleep. Good night sleep is vital to maintain health. Doctors recommend taking 6 to 8 hours of sleep in 24 hours. If you are taking lesser sleep than this, then your immune system can become weaker, allowing many diseases to attack you.
Eating Junk Food Daily
Eating a balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, poultry, dairy, and meat is necessary to obtain all kinds of essential nutrients. Junk food is trendy among the young generation these days that is deficient in nutrition and high on calories. Saturated fats are also an important component of these food items. They are found to affect immunity negatively, leading to infections.
High Alcohol Intake
Drinking a high quantity of alcohol can reduce the reactivity of your immune system to invading germs. It is advisable to drink alcohol in moderation to maintain an efficient and responsive immune system.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Doctors and health professionals always stress the importance of an active lifestyle. However, many people continue to follow sedentary habits. Such habits are associated with various diseases, such as heart conditions, diabetes, obesity etc. A sedentary lifestyle is also related to a weaker immunity and frequent attacks of infections.
Being an Active or Passive Smoker
Smoking can be damaging for your immunity. People who smoke tend to get infections easily, and their wound healing function is also affected. Now, if you think that you do not smoke, and that is why it does not apply to you, then think again. You might be inhaling secondhand smoke that is also very dangerous.
Continuous Stress
When you stress, stress hormones are released in your blood. These hormones dampen the response of your immune system and weaken your immunity. Try to do activities that help relieve stress or see a doctor.
Excessive Exercising
Your body has a limit, and when you try to push it beyond its physical limits, it stops functioning correctly. Your immune system also stops responding efficiently, and you fall prey to infections easily. Always ensure that you take proper rest and do not overwork yourself.
Going Through a Sudden Tragedy
Studies have reported that hearing sudden tragic news or going through an unexpected sad event can weaken your immunity. Bereavement or grieving can lead to the release of certain hormones and chemicals that can negatively impact your immune system.