Common Misconceptions & Easy Solutions for Immune Health!
Let’s bust some immunity myths 💥
Myth 1️⃣: If I sanitize everything, I won’t get sick.
Aside from the fact that it’s impossible to completely avoid germs, the truth is we need a healthy microbiome for a healthy immune system—to keep everything from infections to allergies to inflammation in check.
Myth 2️⃣: I need to “boost” my immune system.
Boosting immunity is overly simplified because an overactive immune system can be just as damaging as an underactive immune system—contributing to allergies and autoimmunity.
Myth 3️⃣: Vitamin C will keep me healthy.
Sure, vitamin C supports immune function, but it’s not the only nutrient we need. Other key immune nutrients include vitamins A, D, E, selenium, zinc, and protein.
5 Things You Wish Wouldn’t Affect Your Immune System—But DO!
People love to pop their vitamin C this time of year, but I hate to be the bearer of bad news…
Vitamin C isn’t going to do much if your immune system is being squashed by other forces.
Like…
❌ Stress
❌ Short Sleep
❌ Not Exercising
❌ Staying Indoors
❌ Sugar! Sugar!! Sugar!!!
It’s tempting to look for a miracle pill to keep us healthy, but the truth is that our bodies are complex beings that respond to cues from everywhere.
What is the best thing you can do to support your immunity right now?
Look for the weakest link in your health and your habits.
😮 70% of your immune system is in your gut.
Have you heard this statistic?
It’s true.
Of all the immune cells in the human body, 70-80% are located in a place called the GALT, which is lymphatic tissue around the gastrointestinal tract.
These immune cells are trained by the gut microbiome, which means…
🙌 Healthy Gut Microbiome = Healthy Immune System 🙌
Most people never think about it, but eating in a way that supports the gut microbiome is one of the best ways to support your immune system!!
Want some ideas for microbiome-friendly foods?
🥦 Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
🥣 Probiotic-rich yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut
🧄 Prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, and bananas
Not everyone does well with these foods, depending on many individual factors. Please do not take this as medical advice.
Exercise & Immune Function: Helpful or Harmful?
Let’s set the record straight.
Consistent moderate exercise supports immune function by:
✅ Increasing circulation (so immune cells can work their surveillance system better)
✅ Increasing lymphatic flow (lymph will stay stagnant if you don’t move)
✅ Improving metabolic health (which translates to immune health)
✅ Lowering inflammation (creating a more balanced immune response)
✅ Decreasing stress (which can significantly affect immune function)
Lots of people get confused about this because athletes going through prolonged intense training are more susceptible to getting sick.
It all comes down to how much you exercise and how hard.
The science shows that exercising at a moderate to vigorous intensity for about 60 minutes per day gives the biggest immune benefits.
What’s your plan for getting moving and staying healthy?
In Health,
Rachel Oppitz, ND
