8 Smart Ways to Boost Your Immune System — Some May Surprise You

Winter may be winding down, but cold and flu season hasn’t packed its bags yet. Staying healthy, however, doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. Dr. Roger Seheult, a critical care physician and pulmonologist, shared some straightforward strategies for boosting your immune system during a recent interview with Fox News Digital. His advice? It’s all about mastering the basics.

Dr. Seheult introduced the acronym "NEWSTART," a method developed by Weimar University in California. It’s a roadmap not just for avoiding seasonal sniffles but for living a long, healthy life free from chronic illnesses. Let’s break it down:

Nutrition: You are what you eat, and your diet can make or break your health. Dr. Seheult recommends a plant-based diet rich in fiber and low in processed foods to nurture a healthy gut and provide essential vitamins and nutrients. "This diet supports your microbiome gut flora, which is crucial for immunity," he explained. (So maybe skip the chips and reach for some veggies instead—your gut will thank you.)

Exercise: Movement is medicine, and it doesn’t have to mean pumping iron at the gym. Activities like gardening, jogging, or even a brisk walk can deliver significant benefits. "Couch potatoes who start exercising see almost immediate improvements," Dr. Seheult noted, adding that moderate exercise is ideal for reducing inflammation.

Water: Staying hydrated is a no-brainer, but Dr. Seheult also highlighted the benefits of hydrotherapy, such as sauna sessions. "Viruses struggle in high temperatures, and our immune system uses fever as a natural defense," he said. Time to make friends with your water bottle and maybe a steam room, too.

Sunlight: Just 15 to 20 minutes of daily sunlight can do wonders for your health. Beyond boosting your mood, certain light spectra can improve metabolism and regulate sleep. (Think of it as nature’s free therapy.)

Temperance: Moderation is key, especially when it comes to alcohol, tobacco, or other toxins. "Don’t put harmful substances into your body," Dr. Seheult advised. It’s simple advice, but not always easy to follow when happy hour calls.

Air: Fresh air isn’t just refreshing—it’s essential. Crack open those windows or head outdoors to lower indoor carbon dioxide levels and soak in the healing compounds released by trees, known as phytoncides. Research even suggests that a stroll in Central Park can boost your immune system for up to a week. (Yes, even Manhattanites can benefit from nature.)

Rest: Sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Aim for 7-8 hours per night, and try to stick to a consistent bedtime. Rest also means taking breaks from work and digital distractions. "Disconnecting even for a day can reduce stress and cortisol levels," Dr. Seheult said.

Trust: Faith, whether in religion or a supportive community, can work wonders for your mental and physical health. "Being part of a community of belief and having trust in a higher power can help lower cortisol," Dr. Seheult concluded.

So there you have it: Eight simple steps to a stronger immune system. They may not be groundbreaking, but sometimes the best advice is the stuff we already know—just with a little extra motivation to actually follow through.