Skip to main content

Now in an Important Time to Support Your Immune System


Along with the continuing pandemic, winter is the height of the flu season as well as other respiratory and cold viruses. Experts say this means it is more important than ever to boost our immune system to help fight off disease-causing microorganisms.

The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. As it records every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated, our system can quickly recognize and destroy the microbe if/when it enters the body again.

Michael Starnbach, professor of microbiology at Harvard Medical School, explains supporting the immune system is multi-faceted, and the first line of defense is to follow a healthy lifestyle. Recommendations to boost our immune systems include:

  • Don't smoke.
  • Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
  • Get adequate sleep.
  • Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask and cooking meats thoroughly.
Research has shown the immune systems of older people are weaker, placing them at a higher risk for contracting infectious diseases. As they are also more likely to die from the disease, they especially need to take steps to protect themselves. Starnbach says this “includes getting the Covid vaccine and booster shot, along with other recommended vaccinations.” He says, “Think of vaccination as a cheat sheet for your immune system. A vaccine introduces the immune system to the invader ahead of time and allows it to develop a battle plan.” If you do get the virus, your immune system is ready to react quickly and perhaps prevent symptoms altogether or at least serious illness.

For the best senior living in Pasadena, CA, MorningStar of Pasadena provides a relaxing, carefree lifestyle for residents. Offering independent living and assisted living with resort-style amenities and hospitality and care services, area seniors trust our community for affordability, comfort and companionship. Visit our website to learn more about our home and all that it offers. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials

Source:

health.harvard.edu/blog/4-immune-boosting-strategies-that-count-right-now-202201122669
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Balance Problems Are Common in Older Adults

The statistics of older adults taking a fall each year are alarming, and consequences can impact the person’s independence, or in the worst case, be deadly. Experts say as we age, our bodies may start to feel less stable due to things like a loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility and slower reflexes. Poor balance and dizziness can also be a result of medical problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, poor vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels as well as medications. Another culprit interfering with balance is inner ear problems. The labyrinth is a part of the inner ear that controls balance and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause lots of problems including vertigo. The condition called Labyrinthitis generally is a result of other issues such as head injuries, viral or bacterial infections, and circulatory system conditions like strokes or low blood pressure. The National Institute on Aging says families and caregivers should be on the lookout for an older ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Are You Ready for a Parent’s Unexpected Hospital Stay?

While many hospital stays are planned, older adults are more likely to require an unexpected trip to the hospital. When you have the luxury of time, it is easy to get prepared with the necessary information a parent needs when admitted to the hospital. It can be a different story if the trip is sudden. Medical experts say to ensure a loved one gets the proper care, it is important to see to it that the hospital has a complete medical history. Notes and documents can be completed and gathered now then updated as health changes occur. For starters, the hospital will want a “next of kin” contact for the patient so decide beforehand who that will be. Now go through the list of medications your parents take and make sure they are all together in one location. In the event of a medical emergency, you will be able to bring all their medications with you to ensure the hospital knows the most up-to-date medications and dosages. Another thing to gather information on regards your parents’ pre-...
Post a Comment
Read more

Benefits for Assisted Living Available to Eligible Veterans or Surviving Spouse

Residents of the MorningStar Senior Living communities include veterans from all branches of the military and we are honored to serve them. As a MorningStar team member eloquently said, “Seniors speak powerfully to the fact that freedom comes at a cost. It requires that you choose to do the right thing which almost always includes sacrifice. Whether it’s time, money or comfort, those who came before us chose to sacrifice to build a better society.” When we meet a potential resident who is a veteran or a surviving spouse of a vet, and in need of assisted living ; we are pleased to direct them to a “Financial Concierge.” These financial services experts have the knowledge to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance,” which is a benefit offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Aid & Attendance benefits are a tax-free pension paid directly to a qualified veteran or their spouse in the form of monthly payments, which is subject to change annuall...
Post a Comment
Read more