The likelihood that you will spontaneously clear the human papillomavirus (HPV) if exposed is high. A healthy immune system removes the majority of HPV infections in under two years. Many asymptomatic (symptom-free) individuals who have cleared the virus may never even be aware they ever had it.
Although there isn’t one specific thing you can do, certain behavioral habits can strengthen your natural immunity and help clear the virus if exposed. This is the case with oncogenic and non-oncogenic types of HPV. The truth is, 4 out of 5 women will be infected with HPV by the age of 50. Interestingly, if you have already have had HPV, you can still become infected again but most likely by another strain of HPV. There are over 100 strains of HPV which can cause various health issues such as genital warts and cancers of the vagina, cervix, vulva and anus.
This article discusses viable strategies to strengthen your immune system to protect you against diseases like HPV.
Can You Get HPV Out of Your System?
Any infection must be fought with a robust immune system, and HPV is no exception. Studies have shown that people under 30, who typically have a more robust immune response, have the best chances of clearing HPV, despite the lack of research in this area.
If you have HPV, you can strengthen your immune system in four straightforward ways:
- Quit smoking
- Reduce stress
- Eat a healthy diet
- Be physically active
- Get plenty of sleep
- Take supplements such as AHCC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activity can all help your immune system.
Quit smoking
You should try to stop smoking if you currently smoke cigarettes and have HPV. It is believed that smoking lowers immunity, which affects your body’s capacity to fend off diseases like HPV infection. Additionally, multiple HPV infections are more likely to occur in smokers.
Decrease Stress
Your immune system performs less effectively when your body’s levels of stress hormones rise. This implies that your ability to combat infections like HPV effectively is limited. It’s crucial to change your life to lower your stress level. Your body will respond less negatively to stress if you engage in yoga, socializing, and meditation.
Maintain A Healthy Diet
On the subject of whether diet plays a part in assisting your body in getting rid of HPV, experts are divided. Some B-complex vitamins can strengthen your immune system. These consist of folate, thiamine (B1), vitamin B12, riboflavin (B2), and thiamine. Including foods high in these B vitamins in your diet is undoubtedly beneficial and may even be helpful.
Some good dietary sources of these vitamins include:
- Milk and cheese
- Vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale
- Chicken, pork, and beef
- Eggs
- Fish and shellfish
- Whole grains
Although there is currently no cure for HPV, there are things you can do to treat health problems HPV causes. Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns and find the best treatment plan for you.
