7 ways to improve your immune system that are better than coronavirus face masks

It’s the time of year when we start reaching for the Berocca tablets in an attempt to keep those cold and flu viruses at bay.

But with the recent spread of coronavirus to the UK, it’s never been more important to keep your inner security guard in tip-top condition.

It’s no surprise that eating well, getting a good night’s sleep and washing your hands regularly can help support your body’s ability to fight off infections, but are there other ways to boost your body’s defence mechanism?

Here’s how the immune system works, and how to keep it in balance.

Age matters

Unfortunately, ‘the immune system declines by about 2-3% a year from our 20s, which is why older people are more susceptible to infections,’ says Janet Lord, professor of immune cell biology at the University of Birmingham. Death rates from diseases like pneumonia and bronchitis are three times higher among elderly people.

1. Spice things up Season your food with garlic, onions, ginger, turmeric and cayenne pepper. These have antioxidant, detoxification and antimicrobial properties.

2. Drink green tea It’s rich in antioxidants called Polyphenols, which are efficient infection



fighters.

3. Get enough sleep A good night’s sleep (we’re talking 7-9 hours) can bolster the T cells, which fight infection in the body. One study also showed that just one night of 4 hours’ sleep depleted the body’s natural killer cells by 70%.

4. Reduce stress The brain and the immune system are in constant communication – when we are stressed, the brain produces more cortisol and prepares the body for emergency situations. But while it is doing that, it depresses our immune system. Try relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation. Positive thinking can also go a long way.

5. Keep warm It turns out it’s true what your mother said – cold viruses are more infectious at temperatures lower than 37°C, which is the average core body temperature. So wrap up warm when you go outside.

6. Fluids, fluids, fluids Staying hydrated helps your body naturally eliminate toxins and other bacteria that might cause illness. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.

7. Essential oils Lemon has powerful antibacterial properties and has been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which fight off infections. Diffuse six drops of lemon oil in a diffuser (like the Tisserand Aroma Spa Diffuser, £39.95) to help give your immune system a boost.