The top 20 most popular ways people try to support their immune system

Brits have revealed the lengths they go to to maintain a healthy immune system – including taking ice baths, acupuncture, and colonic irrigation.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 34 per cent employ such tactics in the hope of building up their natural defences – with 37 per cent taking this ‘more seriously’ over the past two years.

Other popular immunity hacks include sex more, listening to uplifting and vitamin D-rich music, fasting, gargling saltwater, and taking vitamin D.

And nearly one in 20 (four per cent) have even tried colonic irrigation – the practice of injecting water via the anus to flush out toxins from the colon.

It was also found that 27 percent are open to trying more extreme steps to improve immunity such as IV vitamin infusions. But, 52 percent aren’t convinced that alternative methods like these work.

70% believe that small daily habits could be more sustainable and efficient to support their immune system.

The research was commissioned by Actimel [www.actimel.co.uk/immune-system], also found 40 per cent are eager to find tactics to support their immune system that they’re likely to stick to.

Immunologist, Dr Jenna Macciochi, who has teamed-up with the yoghurt drink, said: “Movement and adding more Vitamin D to your diet are two key ways to support the immune system.

“They are also arguably two of the easiest and most accessible methods for promoting this aspect of our health.

“While it’s encouraging to see such a large proportion of those polled actively wanting to adopt steps to support their immune system, they might be going to greater lengths than they need to.

“I am a firm believer of adopting little daily habits when it comes to sustainable solutions for supporting your immune system.”

A strong immune system is essential

The study also found 32 per cent of adults have been so keen to support their immune system, they’ve made a New Year’s resolution to do just that.

However, only 33% of respondents managed to keep the plan for at least three to four weeks.

It is not possible to keep the pledge if they aren’t motivated (50%) and it doesn’t fit with their existing routines (44%).

However, 86% intend to pursue at minimum one activity or tactic this year in order to promote a healthy immune response.

And 54 per cent believe they will be more successful if they find a method which doesn’t involve overhauling their entire lifestyle and fits within existing routines. 

OnePoll conducted the study and found that 52% of adults consider their immune systems to be strong.

However, 28 per cent ‘lack knowledge’ when it comes to supporting it, with 50 per cent wanting to learn more about this subject.

Dr Jenna Macciochi from Actimel, added: “Interest in the immune system among the general public has increased in recent years.

“But it’s important to know that we don’t need to go to extreme lengths to support this aspect of our health.

“Movement, eating well, ensuring you get the right vitamins and consuming nutritious foods/drinks can be all that’s needed.

“The little things that we do daily can make the biggest difference.”  

The top 20 most popular ways people try to support their immune system

1.            Get more water

2.            Take Vitamin D

3.            Regular exercise

4.            A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended

5.            Taken oral vitamin supplements

6.            You tried to get more sleep at night

7.            Step count increased

8.            Make lemon water

9.            Fortified foods

10.         Intermittent fasting

11.         Salt water filtered

12.         Had more sex

13.         Taken cold showers

14.         Veganuary

15.         Go on to wellness retreats

16.         Mixing with sick people to create antibodies

17.         Taken ice baths

18.         Have you tried acupuncture?

19.         Wild swimming

20.         You tried osteopathy