Can your food make you sick? Studies have shown spikes in sugar intake suppress your immune system. When your immune system is compromised, you are more likely to get sick. If you eat a lot of foods and beverages high in sugar or refined carbohydrates, which the body processes as sugar, you may be reducing your body’s ability to ward off disease.
“Eating a well-rounded diet high in pretty, colorful veggies and fruits will give your body the vitamins and minerals it needs to fight off illness. These foods help your body regulate and stabilize to work at peak performance,” says Samer Blackmon, M.D., an internal medicine specialist at Piedmont. “Believe it or not, what you put in your mouth serves as one building block to a strong immune system.”
Dr. Blackmon advises against consuming these things in excess because research has proven them to compromise your immune response, making infections more likely:
And while they aren't part of a food group, tobacco products can also compromise your immune system.
“To go the extra mile in ensuring you do have a strong immune system, research suggests that eating garlic and foods high in vitamin C helps ward off infection,” says Dr. Blackmon. “The next time you reach for junk food, realize that you not only are affecting your weight, but you may be letting down your resistance to bacteria, viruses, and parasites.”
Dr. Blackmon practices at Piedmont Physicians White Oak, located at 1825 Highway 34 East, Suite 3000, Newnan, GA 30265. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Blackmon or one of our other primary care providers. Save time, book online.
FAQs
Your immune system can also be weakened by smoking, alcohol, and poor nutrition. AIDS. HIV, which causes AIDS, is an acquired viral infection that destroys important white blood cells and weakens the immune system. People with HIV/AIDS become seriously ill with infections that most people can fight off.
What compromises the immune system? ›
Your immune system can also be weakened by smoking, alcohol, and poor nutrition. AIDS. HIV, which causes AIDS, is an acquired viral infection that destroys important white blood cells and weakens the immune system. People with HIV/AIDS become seriously ill with infections that most people can fight off.
What foods are immunity killers? ›
10 Foods That May Weaken Your Immune System
- Added sugar. There's no doubt that limiting how much added sugar you consume promotes your overall health and immune function. ...
- Salty foods. ...
- Foods high in omega-6 fats. ...
- Fried foods. ...
- Processed and charred meats. ...
- Fast food. ...
- Foods that contain certain additives. ...
- Highly refined carbs.
- Alcohol. Drinking a lot of alcohol is known to suppress our immune system. ...
- Smoking. Smoking is terrible for your immune system and is damaging to your lungs. ...
- Processed food. ...
- Stress. ...
- Not enough sleep. ...
- 6 common types of arthritis and related conditions.
Symptoms
- Frequent and recurrent pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, meningitis or skin infections.
- Inflammation and infection of internal organs.
- Blood disorders, such as low platelet count or anemia.
- Digestive problems, such as cramping, loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea.
HIV and mononucleosis (mono) are examples of infectious diseases that weaken your immune system and can lead to serious illness. Cancer. Certain types of cancer, like leukemia and lymphoma, can weaken your immune system.
What 5 things affect your immune system? ›
When working optimally, the immune system can prevent sickness when we're exposed to germs. Several factors like sleep, diet, stress and hygiene can affect the immune system's performance, and any offsets in these behaviors can cause havoc on immune function.
What are the three main enemies immune system defense against? ›
D. Reviewed by Emily Henderson, B.Sc. The human body has three primary lines of defense to fight against foreign invaders, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The immune system's three lines of defense include physical and chemical barriers, non-specific innate responses, and specific adaptive responses.
Is banana good for immune system? ›
Bananas are not only a prebiotic food – supporting gut health – they are high in vitamin B6. This vitamin is needed to keep the immune system functioning properly. Bananas are an excellent base for your next smoothie! Other foods high in vitamin B6 include cold-water fish, lean chicken breast, chickpeas and potatoes.
What are signs that your immune system is fighting a virus? ›
Signs Your Body Is Fighting a Cold
- Body aches.
- Congestion.
- Cough.
- Decreased appetite.
- Fatigue.
- Feeling rundown or unwell.
- Mild headache.
- Low-grade fever (99 F to 100.3 F)
Eggs. Adequate protein intake is important to support immune response, and eggs are a great way to do this since they also contain nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, selenium, and vitamin E that the body needs for proper immune functioning. If you can, opt for eggs from chickens that were fed a vegetarian diet.
Is water good for immune system? ›
You know water is important — but do you know just how important? This simple drink carries oxygen to your cells, helping your immune system function effectively and enabling other critical body processes. It also works to remove waste and toxins, aid in nutrient absorption, lubricate joints and more.
