"Stress is one of the major contributors to an unbalanced immune system and susceptibility to infections," explains Dr Macciochi. "After a stressful event, cortisol (the stress hormone) reduces the amount of circulating immune cells, putting a pause on generation of new ones". In extreme cases, cortisol can cause inflammation, leaving us more susceptible to infection. "It's important to try and reduce stress as much as you can through breathing techniques or just taking a moment for yourself," advises Dr Macciochi.
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