Overweight? Your Immune System is at Risk!

5 Steps to Boost Your Immune Response!

It is no secret that the number of people who are overweight or obese in the United States is reaching epidemic proportions. Studies estimate that more than 50% of the population is classed as overweight with a shocking one-third of adults falling into the ‘obese’ category (a body mass index of 30 or higher). It also comes as no surprise to most people to discover that being overweight puts them at greater risk of developing health problems. One of the reasons for this is because research has found that carrying excess weight can weaken the body’s immune system and reduce its ability to fight off infections. The more overweight you are, the more your immune system will be compromised. This could put you at risk of developing all manner of illnesses, including picking up viruses and infections.

Fortunately, there are things that you can do to boost your immune response so that you can live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Here are our 5 steps for boosting your immune response.

 

1.   Get help to lose weight

We know that losing weight is far from easy. A long-term commitment to a healthy diet and plenty of exercise is needed, and for some people, this is impossible to maintain. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help – and they aren’t as drastic as plastic surgery. Red light therapy – also known as light liposuction – works by liquifying fat cells so that the fat can be metabolized by the body. The fat cells then shrink down, reducing your physical size and your weight. The red light simultaneously boosts the production of collagen and elastin which are responsible for tight, smooth skin. This enables the skin to more closely adhere to the contours of your skin and improve your overall appearance.

 

2.   Stay active

Regardless of your size, working out is one of the best ways to boost your immune system. Regular exercise causes your body’s white blood cells and antibodies to circulate more quickly, and this enables them to detect invaders and deal with them more rapidly, and before they cause you to become unwell. Regular exercise also lowers stress hormones, which in turn can reduce your risk of getting sick. If you find exercise difficult, consult with your doctor to find out which types of movements you can perform. Even just a little, consistent physical activity can make a big difference.

 

3.   Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Even if you aren’t able to stick to a strict diet to lose weight, making the right food choices can still benefit your immune system and lower your risk of disease. As much as 80% of our immune system is located in our digestive system, so when we eat the right foods, it is easier for us to fight off infections quickly and before they can cause us to become seriously unwell. Be sure to stick to whole foods where you can, with a balanced combination of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and high protein. Limit your intake of sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods for the healthiest gut and strongest immune system.

 

4.   Get enough rest

Our body does the majority of its healing while we are asleep, making catching those z’s an important part of recovering from illness or injury. However, sleep is just as important for boosting our immune system with studies showing that people who get at least 7 hours of sleep each night could be up to 4 times less likely to develop a cold than those who get less than 6 hours on a regular basis. Being sleep deprived triggers stress hormones and causes us to crave bad foods that can suppress our immune system. Be sure to get a minimum of 7 hours each night on a regular basis to keep your immune system working efficiently!

 

5.   Quit smoking

Most people know that smoking is bad for their health, but did you know it can have repercussions for your immune system? Smoking inhibits the amount of oxygen that can be carried in the blood. When you quit, you can benefit from improved circulation, increased oxygen levels, and reduced inflammation – all of which will boost your immune system, so it is easier for you to fight infection and illness.

If you would like more information about red light therapy and how it can help you to lose weight and build a stronger immune system, please contact Sarasota Laser Lipo Body Sculpting & Anti-Aging today!