Controlled weight, healthy diet, and regular exercise 1 can keep the body in the best shape possible to fight infections. Cleanliness, especially regular hand washing, can also help keep germs from invading the system. Some foods appear to interfere with the body's immune function. Sugars inhibit white blood cells in their attempts to destroy bacteria. 2 Alcohol 3 and high dietary fat 4 also interfere with immune function.
Allergies can also weaken the immune system.
Many ear infections are caused by allergic reactions , especially to dairy 5 . In these cases, antibiotics may treat the infection, but it will recur almost immediately. 6 When allergies are affecting immunity, it may be necessary to discover which food or environmental agent is causing the problem, and avoid it as much as possible. Vitamin A helps to strengthen skin and mucous membranes, preventing germs from penetrating these. Supplementation may help prevent infection and speed recovery from certain illnesses, such as measles and diarrhea.