Your immune system is your body's defense system. When a harmful invader — like a cold or flu virus, or the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 — gets into your body, your immune system mounts an attack. Known as an immune response, this attack is a sequence of events that involves various cells and unfolds over time.
Following general health guidelines is the best step you can take toward keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every part of your body, including your immune system, functions better when protected from environmental assaults and bolstered by healthy-living strategies such as these:
· Don't smoke.
· Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
· Take a multivitamin if you suspect that you may not be getting all the nutrients you need through your diet.
· Exercise regularly.
· Maintain a healthy weight.
· Control your stress level.
· Control your blood pressure.
· Get enough sleep.
· Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and trying not to touch your hands to your face, since harmful germs can enter through your eyes, nose, and mouth.
