Falling Sick Repeatedly Despite Normal Immunity Tests ? Doctors Explain Why

news18.com · Feb 15, 2026 · Collected from GDELT

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Last Updated:February 15, 2026, 14:04 ISTNormal immunity test results don’t always mean strong immunity. Let's understand how nutrition, sleep, gut, stress, lifestyle can affect your body’s ability to fight infectionsNormal immunity test results do not always reflect true immune strength, as lifestyle, nutrition, sleep, and gut health play a crucial role in preventing recurrent infections.Every now and then, we come across family members, friends, or colleagues who seem to fall sick multiple times a year despite having normal immune test results. It can be confusing, if the reports are normal, shouldn’t immunity be strong?“We often become overly dependent on routine tests and assume that if the reports are normal, everything is fine," says Dr Ravi Kesari, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), Apollo Spectra, Bangalore – Koramangala. “But test results alone do not provide a complete assessment of immune system health."Recommended StoriesDeepika Padukone Confirmed For The White Lotus Season 4? Here’s What We KnowWhy Road Travel Is Driving India’s Domestic Tourism BoomCongress eyes alliance with GFP for 2027 Goa pollsAkhtar Mengal questions state strategy, warns of deepening crisis in BalochistanAccording to Dr Kesari, the body’s ability to fight infections depends on multiple factors, including daily habits, environmental exposure, genetic predisposition, and overall health status. Laboratory values may appear normal, yet functional immunity can still be compromised.The Role of Nutrition and Vitamin Deficiencies“The immune system depends heavily on proper nutrition," explains Dr Ravi Kesari. “It requires a balanced intake of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to function optimally."Diets high in sugar and processed foods can disrupt gut health and weaken immune responses. One of the most common deficiencies observed in clinical practice is vitamin D deficiency, which is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections such as influenza and viral illnesses.“Low vitamin D levels can also worsen autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis," notes Dr Kesari.Sleep, Hydration, and Hygiene MatterSleep is not optional when it comes to immune resilience. “People who consistently sleep less than six hours a night are at higher risk of infections," says Dr. Ravi Kesari. “Their bodies also tend to produce fewer antibodies after vaccination."Hydration plays an equally important role. Water helps transport nutrients, remove toxins, and maintain mucosal barriers that defend against pathogens.“Even simple measures like proper hand hygiene significantly reduce infection risk," Dr. Kesari adds. “Basic preventive habits remain powerful tools."Gut Health and Antibiotic OveruseNearly 70 percent of immune activity originates in the gut. The balance of beneficial bacteria plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses.“Frequent antibiotic use, chronic stress, processed diets, and irregular eating patterns can disrupt gut microbiota," explains Dr. Ravi Kesari. “While antibiotics are essential in certain medical conditions, their overuse or misuse can increase susceptibility to future infections."When gut health deteriorates, immune efficiency declines, even if standard blood tests appear normal.Other Hidden FactorsRecurrent infections may also stem from:Genetic predispositionStructural defects in certain organsUnderlying conditions such as multiple myelomaChronic stressObesityProlonged exposure to air pollution“Immunity is influenced by a combination of internal and external factors," says Dr Kesari. “It cannot be evaluated through a single test."The Bigger PictureA strong immune system develops through a holistic approach to health rather than focusing on one isolated factor.“Repeated sickness is often a signal that lifestyle adjustments are needed," Dr Kesari emphasises. “Balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and timely medical guidance can significantly strengthen the body’s natural defence mechanisms."In other words, normal lab results do not always mean optimal immunity. True immune health is built daily through consistent, mindful choices that support the body from within.News18 NewsletterHandpicked stories, in your inboxA newsletter with the best of our journalismLocation : First Published:February 15, 2026, 14:04 ISTDisclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Loading comments...