VIRUSES and bacteria aren’t the only bad actors that test your immune system. Your T cells are being tested 24/7, and by some surprising culprits, ranging from modern-day convenience items in your home to deep-rooted emotions. We scoured the data to bring you common immune-system wreckers so you can eliminate them from your life.

    POPCORN Microwavable popcorn bags are commonly coated in nonstick chemicals called perflurorinated compounds (PFCs) so grease doesn’t penetrate the bag. A recent study in environmental health found levels considered “safe” are 100 to 1,000 times too high for children. These chemicals have been shown to mess up your immune system. Some of the same nonstick chemicals added to popcorn bags also hide out in many nonstick pots and pans. So try to use glass, cast iron, or stainless steel utensils to avoid nonstick chemicals.

    LONELINESS Your immune cells are social, and they want you to be, too. T cells scan your body for disease and then share information like honeybees, according to a recent scientific breakthrough. But if you’re not so social, it could impact your ability to fight disease. Ohio State researchers recently found worrying about close relationships acts like a chronic stressor that suppresses your immunity.

    ANTIBIOTICS Taking antibiotics can slash your levels of cytokines, the hormonal messengers your immune system relies on during sickness.

    Find out when you actually need antibiotics. When you are on antibiotics, be sure to take doses on time and finish the entire course. Eat low-sugar yogurt and fermented foods to repopulate your gut flora.

    SUGAR Eating 100 grams of sugar significantly lowered the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria for up to five hours, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Avoid foods with added sugar as much as possible, especially during cold and flu season.

    DEHYDRATION Fluids help flush your body of immune-damaging toxins and carry nutrients to any infection sites. Little-known fact? Many of us walk around mildly dehydrated most of the time without even knowing it.

    If your pee is dark yellow in the morning, drink more water before bed — you’re aiming for pale yellow for a visible sign of proper hydration.

    (SD-Agencies)