Is it possible to boost immunity?

The idea of boosting your immunity is enticing, but the ability to do so has proved elusive for several reasons. The immune system is precisely that -- a system, not a single entity. To function well, it requires balance and harmony. There is still much that researchers don't know about the intricacies and interconnectedness of the immune response. For now, there are no scientifically proven direct links between diet or lifestyle and enhanced immune function.

But that doesn't mean diet and lifestyle have no effect. Quite a number of researchers are exploring the influence of diet, exercise, age, psychological stress, herbal supplements, and other factors on the immune response, both in animals and in humans. Although interesting results are emerging, thus far they can only be considered preliminary. That's because researchers are still trying to understand how the immune system works and how to interpret measurements of immune function. In the meantime, general healthy-living strategies are a good way to lay the foundation for good health, including a healthy immune system.