Bolstered immunity refers to having an enhanced immune system that is better prepared to fight infections and diseases. This can be achieved through several means:
- Vaccinations - Getting recommended vaccines strengthens your immune defenses against specific diseases. When you get a vaccine, your immune system responds by creating antibodies and memory cells that will recognize and neutralize those pathogens if exposed in the future. This provides robust and often lifelong immunity against diseases like measles, polio, etc.
- Prior infections - If you have contracted an illness in the past and recovered, chances are your immune system now has durable memory cells against that bacteria or virus. Those memory cells enable a rapid protective response upon reinfection, limiting the severity of the disease.
- Good diet - Eating plenty of colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins gives your immune cells abundant antioxidants and macro/micronutrients. These help strengthen defenses and equip your body to vigorously resist pathogens. Specific nutrients like vitamin C and zinc also directly promote immune functions.
- Exercise - Regular moderate activity and exercise triggers beneficial temporary rises in immune system cells and antibodies. It enhances vigilant surveillance against infections. Though intense exercise can temporarily lower immunity.
- Sleep and stress management - Chronic stress and poor sleep inhibit your body's disease-fighting capabilities. Ensuring adequate good-quality sleep and reducing long-term stress through various relaxation techniques allows immune competence to function optimally.
In summary, bolstering immunity refers to enhancing your body's resistance mechanisms against microbes via vaccinations, healthy living, prior infections, etc. This lessens your chances of contracting preventable illnesses and reduces severity if infected due to a rapid, tailored immune reaction.
So in short,
take vaccines seriously, choose minimum processed
healthy foods with adequate nutrients, find ways to
destress, get a good night's
sleep, and establish a consistent
exercise routine for the long run. This will go a long way in avoiding illnesses and building a very resilient immune system prepared to fight most diseases - one that is truly bolstered!