Your entire body (especially your immune system) is supported and better protected from environmental assaults through stimulating balance in the body (sound familiar?!).
SUPPORT, not BOOST:
Your immune system is just that — a system. To function well, it requires balance and harmony. When your immune system is balanced, it is able to identify when the body has too many or too little immune cells and when to absorb (and attack!) invading pathogens (like viruses).
Your immune system is ALWAYS working (not just when you’re sick). Your body is constantly producing all different kinds of immune cells.
The immune system is also responsible for detecting and eradicating malfunctioning cells (a process called apoptosis, or cell death).
When the system is out of balance and there is too much “cell death”, there can be autoimmune diseases.
When the system is out of balance and there is too much growth and not enough “cell death”, those cells can grow into tumors.
In a time of crisis we try to “Boost” the immune system. Instead we should be encouraging it to find balance constantly.
CREATE A MORE BALANCED IMMUNE SYSTEM:
Get More Sleep.
Sleep is essential to supporting the function of our immune system. There are specific cellular processes that only happen while we're sleeping. Better sleep leads to balanced cells. Balanced cells can create a stronger defense.
If you’re used to sleeping 6-7 hours a night, challenge yourself to go for 7-8. Used to getting 8 hours? Let’s make it 9-10!
Be A More Mindful Eater.
A healthy, strong immune system requires regular nourishment. Evidence suggests that various micronutrient deficiencies (deficiencies of zinc, selenium, iron, copper, folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E) alter our immune response. Where do we get these micronutrients? From eating a diet rich in nourishing fruits, veggies, and meat from happy animals.
Watch the sugar! Sugar feeds tumors and viruses while increasing the instability of your immune system. You can have the ice cream when you’re better! Many OTC cough syrups contain added unnecessary sugars. Always read the labels.
Eating right before bed can also inhibit the quality of your sleep and leads to an increase in insulin production. Consider giving yourself an eating cut off time of 2-3 hours before bed.
Chill Out.
Stress is known and scientifically supported in having a negative impact on immune responses. It also can inhibit the way we absorb nutrients and our quality of sleep.
Try limiting your time on social media. Be mindful about what type of movies and shows you watch. Get outside and take a walk.
Why is it that the flu and cold season is during the winter? Scientists have credited that it's because we spend more time inside in infected quarters. Light exercise can also help to support your immune system.
Supporting Immune Function And CBD.
The science is still inconclusive regarding how CBD can directly support your immune system
It is known that they have found both CB1 and CB2 receptors on immune cells, predominantly CB2. The CB2 receptors help to create an anti-inflammatory effect on specific immune cells supporting the regulation of apoptosis (cell death).
Science has been able to conclude that CBD has an antibiotic effect. CBD and other cannabinoids are currently being researched as formulas for new antibiotic medications.
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER:
“Can CBD help boost my immune system and prevent me from getting sick?” Not directly, but It can help strengthen the pillars of a strong immune system. CBD has proven to be helpful at reducing stress, increasing sleep and decreasing inflammation.