4 Signs Your Immune System Might Be Struggling
Having a hard time shaking off that nagging cough? It might be a sign that your immune system is feeling a bit overworked and in need of some extra support. Our immune system is our body’s natural defence against illness, but when it's not functioning at its best, it can struggle to keep up. Here are four common signs that your immune system could use a little boost:
1. You’re Always Tired
Feeling exhausted no matter how much sleep you get? When your immune system is working overtime to keep you healthy, it can drain your energy levels. This is because your body uses up a lot of resources to fight off infections, leaving you feeling fatigued.
If you find that you’re constantly tired, even after a good night's sleep, your immune system might be trying to tell you that it needs some support.
What to do: Make sure you’re getting plenty of rest and try incorporating energy-boosting foods into your diet, like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, too - dehydration can make fatigue worse!
2. You’ve Always Got a Cold
Do you feel like you’re constantly battling a cold or other minor infections? Your immune system's job is to produce white blood cells that help fight off bacteria and viruses. But when it's weakened, it struggles to keep up, making you more prone to catching bugs over and over again. Dealing with everyday stress can also make your immune responses sluggish, because when your body is in a high alert mode it is less focussed on making immune cells.
If you’re finding yourself with a sniffly nose, sore throat, or cough that just won't quit, it could be a sign that your immune system isn't producing enough white blood cells to fend off the invaders.
What to do: Try adding immune-supporting foods like citrus fruits, garlic, and ginger to your diet. They’re rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can help your body produce more white blood cells. Alongside nutritional changes, taking a natural daily supplement that delivers additional immune-supporting nutrients and anti-viral properties is recommended. And don’t underestimate the power of staying warm and cosy - cold weather can stress your body, making it harder to fight off infections.
3. Stomach Trouble
Did you know that a large portion of your immune system is actually located in your gut? The good bacteria in your stomach play a crucial role in defending against harmful pathogens. If your gut’s microbiome is out of balance, with more harmful bacteria than beneficial ones, it can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, or even more serious conditions. When your immune system is struggling, it can’t maintain that balance, making stomach troubles a more frequent occurrence.
What to do: Support your gut health by incorporating more probiotics (like yoghurt, sauerkraut, or kombucha) and prebiotics (such as bananas, onions, or asparagus) into your meals. They help restore the balance of good bacteria, which is vital for a strong immune system. Taking a gut supporting herbal remedy full of adaptogens is also a great idea.
4. Skin Flare-Ups
Your skin is the body’s first line of defence against infections, and when your immune system is weakened, it often shows up there first. If you’re dealing with unexpected skin flare-ups like rashes, redness, or acne, it could be a sign that your immune system is struggling. A weakened immune response can make your skin more sensitive and slow down the healing of cuts, scrapes, or other wounds. If you notice that even minor injuries are taking longer to heal, your body might be telling you it needs some extra immune support.
What to do: Focus on nourishing your skin from the inside out. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseed, can help reduce inflammation. Don’t forget to stay on top of your skincare routine—keeping your skin clean and moisturised can help it stay healthy while your immune system recovers.