The immune system helps protect the body from harmful pathogens and other environmental risks. It prevents various infectious and debilitating diseases. However, if a person’s immune system is weak, they are more at risk of various illnesses, including certain serious illnesses.

When your immune system is on point, it’s a lifesaver. But as good as it may be, it’s not perfect. Sometimes, this group of special cells, tissues, and organs doesn’t act the way it should.

Signs of a weak immune system:

• Frequent cold and other infections: It is normal for adults to have two to three episodes of a cold or infection a year and recover in seven to 10 days. Those with a weak immune system tend to have frequent episodes and may take longer to recover.
• Digestive problems: Many scientists believe the root cause of most diseases is a weak digestive system.
• Organ inflammation: Organ inflammation can weaken the body’s immune system. Organ inflammation could happen due to injury, toxins, pathogens, trauma, heat, etc.
• Cold Hands: If your blood vessels are inflamed, it can be harder for your fingers, toes, ears, and nose to keep warm. The skin in these areas may turn white, then blue, when you’re exposed to the cold.
• Sensitive to Sun: People with an autoimmune disorder sometimes have an allergic reaction to ultraviolet (UV) rays called photodermatitis.

Ways to strengthen the immune system

• Stress management: Managing stress plays an important role in the body’s immune health and is often overlooked.
• Exercise: Exercise can increase cortisol levels and suppress immunity. However, exercising in moderation can boost immunity. If a person has a busy schedule, exercising in moderation for three hours a week is sufficient to improve immunity.
• Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet can help the immune system to be healthy.
• Whole plant foods: Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Antioxidants decrease inflammation and reduce free radicals.