Give Your Immune System a Boost
Help your body defend against viruses and bacteria
Your immune system is your natural defense against infectious disease. Your body’s response to viruses and bacteria is especially important during cold and flu season. Immune systems know how to do their job but can still use support. Vaccines strengthen your immune system against viruses. Daily choices, your diet to sleep habits, can also affect your immune response. Take small but impactful steps to keep your body’s defenses strong.
Less stress, more rest
Getting too little sleep or experiencing a great deal of stress can increase your risk of getting sick. Your body needs downtime to build up your immune system. Take time to de-stress with VA’s Mindfulness Coach app or other tools to manage stress.
Learn about the Mindfulness Coach app on the VA Mobile website
Find more resources for managing stress on the Veterans Health Library website
Getting enough sleep is important for a strong immune system. Our bodies release hormones that support our immune system when we sleep. Make sure you’re getting enough rest by practicing good sleep hygiene. Avoid eating or being on your phone before bed to help your body prepare for a night of rest.
Learn about getting healthy sleep on the Veterans Health Library website
Power your body with food and exercise
Eating foods rich in vitamins and nutrients helps power your immune system. Consider adding foods with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc to your diet. Foods with nutrients that help your immune system include:
Dark green, leafy vegetables
Citrus fruits, like grapefruit or oranges
Salmon or tuna
Powering your body with healthy food gives you more energy to exercise. Staying fit has many health benefits, including strengthening your immune system. You don’t have to start by running a marathon. Pace yourself. Add movement into your day by going for walks or trying the MOVE! Coach app.
Learn about the MOVE! Coach app on the VA Mobile website
Talk to your doctor
You can check your records on My HealtheVet to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Getting your vaccines on schedule is one of the best ways to prevent illness.
Learn more about managing your health records
Send your doctor a Secure Message for more guidance. Certain health conditions can impact your immune system, so it is important to get advice from your health care team.
Learn more about Secure Messaging
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