In the midst of this global pandemic crisis, we are inundated with information on what to take, buy, and consume to “boost” our immune system. In some cases, it’s pure marketing jargon, because while we can support our immune health, there is no such thing as making our immune system somehow suddenly bigger. And we actually have to be careful about how many immuno-stimulants we are consuming, because we want to be balanced, not overactive.
In fact, many women suffer from an overly sensitive immune system, which does not mean what it sounds like. It does not mean a stronger, more powerful, kick-ass immune system that rushes to high alert to destroy dangerous invaders. It can actually mean an immune system that attacks any invader, even those that are typically harmless, which causes unnecessary and incessant inflammation in the body.
The University of Rochester Medical Center describes an overactive immune system as something typically determined by genetics, and is when the “immune system may react to substances in the environment that are normally harmless.” We know them as allergens. “Having an allergic reaction is the most common example of an overactive immune system. Dust, mold, pollen, and foods are examples of allergens.”
Now before you think “woah, that’s me,” common allergens are not the culprits of major issues that stem from an overactive immune system. Asthma, eczema, and allergies to foods, such as certain fruits or dairy or gluten, may also be more chronic issues associated with over-sensitized immune systems, which can leave us vulnerable to more harmful diseases that attack the lungs, skin, or digestive system.
Because inflammation is a common response our body has to invaders that it deems dangerous (whether they are or aren’t—such as the case here with overactive immune systems), this can become more serious. Autoimmune diseases are inflammatory responses that can occur when an immune system is on constant defense, and are systemic causes of many dangerous health ailments if they go unchecked. Those with autoimmune diseases are much more susceptible to serious reactions to illnesses that may otherwise be mild for someone with a healthy immune response.
If you feel like your immune system is more than a little touchy—maybe you have allergic responses to food and environmental factors often, or you are even concerned that you are starting to see autoimmune responses and inflammation occurring in various parts of the body—there are things you can do to mitigate.
First and foremost, keep your stress levels in check, and rest. You want to make sure your body isn’t over-producing stress hormones so that you can get proper sleep. Whether it’s baths, meditating, music, adult coloring books, yoga, or cutting back on screen time, make sure you are making time to chill out.
Get a dose of vitamin D. We could all use a supplement, but don’t be afraid to get outside and soak some up if you’re able. Studies show that vitamin D deficiencies are associated with autoimmune responses, as if we needed another reason to wear our new bikinis.
Eat healthy. The role of inflammatory foods typically found in the Western diet or, even better named, the SAD (Standard American Diet) is huge on a negative immune reaction. Cut out processed foods, hydrogenated oils and fried foods, and, we know it’s tough, but sugar. Sugar, especially processed sugar, is very inflammatory and a breeding ground for bacteria. Instead, opt for plenty of fruits and vegetables, easy-to-digest carbs like rice and sweet potatoes, and healthy fats and proteins in things like eggs, fish, and nuts.
With these practices along with maintaining a clean home, we can learn to live with and manage overly sensitive immune systems and even chronic disorders. It takes thoughtful consideration with every choice made in life, but we believe in the whole your-body-is-a-temple mantra. Now is the time to worship.
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