Pets can be hard work. If you’ve ever had one, you know.
From stepping on squeaky toys in the middle of the night to early morning wet nose nudges waking you up, the challenges are many.
But those challenges are far outweighed by the physical, mental and social benefits of having a furry—or feathered—friend by your side. That includes support for your immune system, which we all need now more than ever.
Here are four ways in which Fido, Whiskers, Nemo or Polly can help you support your and your family’s immune system.
- Pets help kids build a healthy immune system
No matter how clean you keep your home, pets still contribute to more and different dirt and bacteria than if it the home was pet-free. Research shows that biodiversity helps children build a healthy immune system.
That goes along with the “dirt is good” theory: Refrain from running after your kids with a giant bottle of hand sanitizer every five minutes, and the germs they pick up in their natural environment will actually stimulate their immune system, making their bodies healthier.
When it comes to pets, some of those immune-supporting perks of biodiversity begin even before children are born. A study showed babies born into families with pets also experience benefits to their immune system. The key exposure time starts before birth and goes to 3 months of age.
- Pets can lower stress levels
When we’re stressed, our bodies release a hormone that can suppress the immune system. Spending quality time with our pets, however, lowers that stress hormone.
Research shows people who were petting a dog registered a drop in blood pressure. And 87 percent of cat ownersreported that their kitties had a positive impact on their wellbeing, while 76 percent reported being better able to cope with daily life because of their cat.
And spending time enjoying the slow pace of your fish in an aquarium or interacting with your pet birds is similar to connecting with nature, another proven stress reducer.
- Pets provide social support
Recent research shows that people who are socially isolated are at an increased risk for several health problems. It’s difficult to maintain some in-person relationships right now but having a pet around can do wonders to avoid loneliness. If you can’t have a pet of your own, maybe you can arrange a visit from a therapy animal. That’s their job after all.
- Pets inspire you to exercise
Whether you’re taking your dog for a walk, throwing toys for your cat or chasing after an escaped pet bird, pets can keep you moving. All the better because not only is exercise part of a healthy lifestyle, research shows that regular exercise is good for a well-functioning immune system.
Try some extra support
There are other measures you can take to help your immune system in addition to spending time with your pet. Consider adding an immunity-supporting supplement like vitamin C, D or echinacea.
There is also Nutrilite™ Immunity Defense Zinc + Holy Basil. Zinc is an essential nutrient for the maintenance of your immune system.* Holy basil, which has its roots in Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine, supports respiratory health and promotes healthy immune function.*
At the very least, start with a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet, regular exercise, plenty of sleep, no smoking and of a lot of handwashing.
* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
