Dr Rupy’s healthy habits

NutritioN has a huge role to play in immunity, but the complexities of this particular system demonstrate why the combination of a variety of lifestyle factors, including exercise and sleep, is the best way forward.

EXERCISE OFTEN

REGULAR, moderate exercise has been universally shown to be beneficial to immunity. Aerobic exercise encourages your body to be more resilient to causes of stress and can also improve your mitochondrial function.

Over-training, however, is associated with reduced immunity.

GIVE YOGA A GO

STUDIES show yoga can have positive effects on immunity by improving cell function. The benefits are such that yoga could be one of the best immunepromoting activities known.

TRY MEDITATION

THE gradual deterioration of our immune system as we age can be closely related to both psychological issues and stress hormones. So it’s clear that techniques — such as meditation or breathing exercises — with demonstrated capacity to reduce stress will be of huge benefit in preserving a healthy immunity.

GET YOUR VITAMIN D

IT’S well known to be vital to bone health and calcium regulation, but vitamin D also plays an important role in immune health. Our bodies mostly make vitamin D from exposure to sunlight as there are few edible sources available. However, the lack of natural light in winter leads many GPs to prescribe supplements. Consult your doctor if you think this is something you need.

GET YOUR SLEEP

PERSISTENT sleep disruption significantly lowers your immune system, increasing inflammation and the risk of developing serious diseases such as heart disease or Type 2 diabetes.

A good seven to nine hours’ sleep a night could be considered one of your most potent weapons in improving your immune system.