For the last few months, we’ve all been taking action to protect ourselves against illness. We know that to avoid COVID-19 we should avoid close contact with others, wear a mask when in public, maintain social distancing, wash our hands often and disinfect surfaces regularly.

But there’s another step you can take to help protect your health and wellness! Our team at AFC Urgent Care Easley is shedding some light on how you can keep your immune system strong to fend off illness.

Why Is the Immune System Important?

This is pretty simple. Your immune system is important because it’s your body’s defense mechanism against illness. When a germ or other invader enters the body, your immune system goes into overdrive and attacks.

This is what happens when your body is functioning effectively and your immune system is strong. But if your immunity is diminished in some way, you are at a higher risk of developing illness.

Signs Your Immune System Is Weakened

• You feel overly stressed and overwhelmed.
• You develop colds and other illnesses often.
• You experience GI troubles, including diarrhea or constipation.
• You have wounds that heal very slowly.
• You feel fatigued all the time.

How Can I Keep My Immune System Strong?

The good news is that maintaining a strong immune system doesn’t have to be difficult. The same everyday habits that support overall health and wellness will help you keep your immunity strong.

That means exercising regularly, eating a diet filled with fruits and veggies, not smoking, limiting your alcohol consumption, getting between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, and finding healthy ways to manage stress. What you eat can be especially important, and there are actually foods that can boost your immune system.

Immune-Boosting Foods

• Broccoli
• Garlic
• Spinach
• Seeds
• Mushrooms
• Ginger
• Chicken
• Peppers
• Citrus fruits

Are you feeling under the weather? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Easley today for a diagnosis and treatment plan.