How to Build Up Your Immune System After Battling a Virus

Overview

Your immune system is a vital part of your overall well being. If it is weak, then you are more susceptible to getting sick and developing serious illnesses. If you were recently sick with a virus, then it is all the more important to get it revved back up to avoid the next virus that comes to town. There are multiple ways to build up your immunity after battling a virus.

Step 1

Keep your hands clean. A lot of viruses are caught as a result of contact with germs. This often happens when you touch something that a sick person touched or from shaking hands with a sick person. Always wash your hands when you shake hands with people or touch anything that someone else has touched. Also, avoid touching your face.

Step 2

Crank up the antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that kill free radicals in the system which are mutant cells that can cause disease. Eat foods that are high in vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin A such as citrus fruits, red peppers, tomatoes, sunflower seeds and carrots. You can also take a multi-vitamin if you don't get enough fruits and vegetables.

Step 3

Get some exercise. Exercise is already known for its many benefits to the body such as weight loss, muscular strength, better mobility, improved brain function and improved circulation. It can also help build your immune system. Get 30 minutes of exercise on five or more days a week. Some examples are weight training, running, swimming, biking and walking.

Step 4

Cut out the bad habits. There are several things that can lower your immunity and they should be eliminated from your routine. Avoid smoking, excessive drinking and the use of illegal substances. Not only can they lower your immunity, but they can also cause damage to your liver, lungs, heart and brain.

Step 5

Try some herbal formulas. There are various herbal supplements that can be used to help boost your immunity. Some of these include garlic, ginseng, probiotics, astragalus, aloe vera and echinacea. Use these as directed, as the FDA has no regulations on them.

Step 6

Don't slack on your sleep. It is during sleep that your body repairs, rebuilds and heals. If you do not get adequate amounts of sleep, then your immunity can be compromised. Aim for seven to nine hours a night as these are the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control.

Step 7

Drink plenty of water. If you happen to have had a stomach virus, there is a good chance that all those trips to the bathroom left you dehydrated. To replenish your fluids, drink up to eight glasses of water a day. Water also helps to flush toxins from your system so the benefits are twofold.