So, what can we do to anti-age our immune system? Dr Macciochi recommends a “multipronged lifestyle approach”, but if overhauling your whole life sounds like too much, there’s one thing that really is key: exercise.

Strength train

A 2018 study of 125 cyclists aged 55 to 79 showed that their immune systems were younger than sedentary 20 somethings. Regular exercise – in particular resistance work – meant the cyclists maintained both muscle mass and muscle strength, which, says Dr Macciochi, are both markers of longevity.

When active, our muscles produce molecules such as interleukin-7 which act on our thymus gland (the gland which produces immune cells) to mitigate immune ageing.

Check your vitamins

As far as your immune system is concerned, you really are what you eat. Ensure you’re getting the recommended intake of omega 3 fats, vitamin D and avoid any nutritional deficiencies. Making sure that your body has all the nutrients it needs to operate effectively is vital in the building of a healthy functioning and youthful immune system.

Prioritise sleep and rest

Dr Macciochi warns that you can’t “supplement your way out of illness”.

“A balanced diet, lots of movement, consistent quality and quantity of sleep and managing your stress have all been shown scientifically to support immune health”.

Take care of your mental health

Importantly, experts agree that self-compassion and taking care of your mental health has also been shown to support immune health, so if the only change you’re ready to make today is to take the stairs to your office rather than the lift, don’t be too hard on yourself.

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