Strengthening the immune system
The days are getting shorter, with temperatures declining steadily. And with it the season of colds and flues is upon us as well. It's therefore all the more important to boost your body's defences and stay healthy during the colder part of the year.
09.10.2024
Viruses, bacteria and fungi ... The immune system is challenged daily with the defence against millions of pathogens. Allergies and poor nutrition can also upset it. However, if it functions well, the conditions for health and performance are in place. The defence system is not limited to one organ or one place in the body; rather, organs, cells and messenger substances work together. It memorises the characteristics of every single pathogen with which it has ever come into contact and can react more quickly and better to renewed contact.
Hardening helps
The naturopath Sebastian Kneipp recommended hardening the body as early as the 19th century, for example through water treatments. Cold showers, treading water or walking barefoot in the snow not only stimulate the immune system, but also strengthen it. Cold showers or alternating showers are also tried and tested methods. The repeated cold stimulus stimulates blood circulation and trains the cardiovascular system. In the cooler months of the year, saunas are also a good way to toughen up.
Exercise to get happy
A walk in the fresh air is good for you. But regular exercise is even better, even in bad weather. Whether swimming, endurance and strength training, cycling or dancing: All exercise improves blood circulation, supports the metabolism and boosts the immune system. The body also releases serotonin and happiness hormones through exercise. These reduce stress and brighten the mood.
A varied diet
A powerful defence system needs plenty of vitamins, minerals and trace elements.It mainly absorbs these from food.A healthy diet provides the body with an optimum supply of nutrients.Healthy means here: Eating a varied and predominantly plant-based diet and drinking enough fluids. A combination of low-energy and nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables and wholemeal products is ideal. SWICA offers its policyholders a comprehensive range of nutritional counselling.
Important rest breaks
Rest breaks are just as important for the body as exercise. Relaxing activities such as yoga, tai chi or meditation can calm the mind and body. The positive influence on the body of sufficient sleep and a good work-life balance is also often underestimated. Both help with regeneration: another important building block for an intact immune system.
In the event of further health-related questions, SWICA customers can contact the santé24 telemedicine service free of charge on +41 44 404 86 86. A telemedicine practice licence allows santé24 physicians to provide additional medical services in cases that are suited to a telemedicine approach. SWICA customers can also use the BENECURA medical app to carry out a digital SymptomCheck and receive recommendations about what to do next. During a subsequent phone call with santé24, customers can decide for themselves whether to release their information from SymptomCheck to santé24.
