How can I improve my health and immune system?

Question

About three years ago, my immune system was awesome! I hardly ever got ill and cut, scratches and even fairly major wounds healed quickly. I felt generally healthy. But now at 18 my health is the worst its ever been- I seem to catch a fair few colds, i'm constantly cold (toes and finger especially), my fitness is fairly good, I run at least once a week, do jujitsu and usually fit some other exercise in, I eat relatively healthily and take vitamins occasionally (although I admit to being fairly forgetfull on this one), I'm a vegetarian and always have been (don't know if this matters) A fewe people have suggested that it's stress related. I'm a second year a level student with the ambition of studting veterinary sceince. I have a fairly big worload but not unmanagable so I don't see why it should be stressed (I study physics, chem and biol). Family life isn't great but I don't see how this would effect my health? Soooo (sorry, not so breif) How can I geat my health back? Any ideas?

Answer 1

Stress CAN damage your immune system. From what you say, I get the feeling that you aren't eating right, and that you are probably considered somewhat "skinny". A balanced diet would include more animal protein, and would undoubted be better for your condition.

Answer 2

Only my opinion, but after knowing quite a few vegetarians over the years, plus vegans, I can honestly say that none of them were particularly healthy, even though their lifestyles were. I just don't think vegetarians have adequate diets. Humans are carnivorous animals, and no amount of vitamin popping will compensate for a good all-round diet. Also, because you have a fairly big workload, maybe it would be worthwhile taking up yoga, which is a wonderful de-stresser. Like you, I never considered that I was stressed, but after 3 lessons of Yoga, I suddenly realised how tranquil everything was; something I never realised before.

Answer 3

Do you think there may be some underlying fear issues? Cold feet and hands suggest this to me. Also with the bigger academic load your diet might not be able to keep up with your physical demands at the moment. Was your family life always not so great? If this is a new development it can tap your physical resources as well.

Answer 4

It sounds like your body is being pulled at both ends. Your more than likely not getting adaquate sleep and being a vegetarian you might not be getting enough iron and protein in your diet. Try adding an iron supplyment and some type of protein supplyment to your diet and get a little more regular sleep. It could also be a little stress, but at your age you should be able to handle it. Good luck.

Answer 5

the only problem u have mentioned is that of catching cold.its allergy and nothing else. not a big problem either. at best u can take some anti allergic tablet when affected. if u feel weakness or tired its for sure stress. stop stretching any thing toofar. carry on with the execise. get deeply absored in studies. take it from me , u must play a game inwhich u sweat. u r fine. uwill be fine
.

Answer 6

Garlic is good for your immune system or a multivitamin should give your vitamin a boost and replenish any lost vitamins keep stocked up on vitamins liquid ones work the quickest you should be feeling great and your immune system should be strong as ever.

Answer 7

Try Eating Lots of Fruit and working out and wearing warm clothes when it's cold outside. and make sure to wash your hands before you eat.

Answer 8

Folic Acid, Iron Supplements. and of course lots of fresh fruit and veg :-)

Answer 9

i find a course of echinacea tablets help you can buy them at any super markets

Answer 10

keep away from the doctors