The temperature difference between morning and evening has been large recently, and some friends have caught a cold! Many people think it might be because they didn't wear enough clothes, giving the cold an opportunity. However, a weakened immune system might be the root cause.
These people are prone to a weakened immune system and should be on guard
1. Love for sweets. Consuming too much sugar not only causes weight gain, but according to an article in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," after consuming 100 grams of sugar, the germ-killing ability of white blood cells is weakened for at least 5 hours.
2. Not drinking enough water. The body needs plenty of water to expel toxins. Daily water intake varies from person to person, but you should ensure your urine is light yellow.
3. Excess fat. Obesity affects organs like the heart and brain, and can also cause hormonal imbalances, damaging the immune system's ability to fight disease. In fact, people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40 are most susceptible to the flu.
4. Dry nasal passages. Moist nasal passages can intercept viruses and prevent the flu. Conversely, overly dry nasal passages create an opportunity for germs to invade. If the dryness is temporary, you can buy a humidifier. If it's chronic, you should consult a doctor to find the cause.
5. Work-related stress. A report from the American Psychological Association states that long-term stress slows down the immune system's response. Philip Tierno of New York University notes that if a person with the flu continues to work hard, their symptoms will worsen immediately.
6. Frequent colds. It's normal for adults to catch a cold 1-3 times per season, with each lasting 3-4 days. However, if the frequency and duration increase, it indicates a weakened immune system that needs improvement through diet, sleep, and exercise.
Signs of a weakened immune system
1. Frequent fatigue: You often lack the energy for work and feel tired after doing just a little. A hospital check-up reveals no organic diseases, and after a period of rest, your energy recovers, but the fatigue returns after just a few days.
2. Constant colds: Colds become a common occurrence. A slight change in weather, and you're sneezing before you can even add a layer of clothing. Moreover, it takes a long time to recover from each cold.
3. Wounds that are prone to infection: If you accidentally get a cut on any part of your body, it will become red and swollen, and even pus-filled, within a few days. While a normal person would heal quickly, yours takes a long time to get better; or a small, painful, and itchy boil might appear on your buttocks, and another one will pop up on your head a few days later.
4. Prone to stomach and intestinal problems: After eating an ordinary dish at a restaurant, everyone else is fine, but you suffer from vomiting and diarrhea. These are all signs of a weakened immune system.
To boost your immunity, these 6 foods are recommended
Grapefruit: Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C and a large amount of flavonoids, which can boost the immune system and help treat colds and flu. Additionally, grapefruit can clear the mind and refresh you.
Elderberry: Recent scientific research has shown that elderberry extract can fight colds. Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and also have anti-infective properties, which are very helpful for improving immune function.
White mushrooms: Mushrooms are rich in the mineral selenium and antioxidants. Low levels of selenium in the body can increase the risk of catching a severe cold. Furthermore, mushrooms contain B vitamins, riboflavin, and niacin, which help maintain a healthy immune system. White mushrooms also have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-tumor properties.
Almonds: A handful of almonds can enhance your immune system's ability to cope with stress. A recommended 1/4 cup serving of almonds contains almost half of your daily requirement of vitamin E, which can boost immunity. The riboflavin, niacin, and B vitamins in almonds also help combat stress.
Watermelon: Ripe watermelon also contains a large amount of the powerful antioxidant glutathione, which has moisturizing and refreshing effects. Because it helps strengthen the immune system, it can fight infections. Glutathione is located in the red flesh near the rind.
Garlic: Garlic contains some antioxidants that can resist bacteria invading the immune system, including *Helicobacter pylori*, which is associated with stomach ulcers and stomach cancer. Cooking tip: Peel the garlic and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This activates the enzymes that boost immunity.