No matter how you live, something—whether it’s stress or anxiety—will eventually harm your immune system and your physical well-being. Let’s explore some of the surprising things that can negatively impact your immune system.

Exercise

Exercise is good for you, but too much of it on a consistent daily basis is more harmful than you’d think. Pushing yourself too hard when you’re lifting weights or running on the treadmill can tire you out too quickly, transmitting an immune response to signal something’s wrong. Even touching machines that a previous user didn’t wipe down can increase your chances of catching a bug.

When you go to the gym, focus on one area of your body, and bring cleaning supplies to wipe down equipment after every use.

Isolation

Many people believe it’s okay to be alone sometimes, but if you’re isolated too much, you can weaken your immune system. The weakness results from an increase in cortisol, which is a hormone that produces stress.

Being by yourself is okay, but make sure you take care of your well-being by stepping outside once in a while. Your immune system will thank you for relieving your unwanted stress.

Cooking

Cooking is the secret to anyone’s heart and soul, but it can actually produce a ton of toxic chemicals and fumes. Certain ingredients such as spices and fumes from gas ranges release chemicals that can result in respiratory problems. If you’re not careful, inhaling these fumes and chemicals can lower your immunity.

The best method of prevention is using a ventilation system. This can be anything from opening a window or using a range hood to suck out unhealthy fumes and replace them with fresh air.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics fight infections, but they also lower the immune system. In a way, antibiotics act as undetected viruses that wreak havoc on your body while fighting off diseases. Many people suggest that antibiotics could be the reasons for compromised immune systems, as they change how the immune system fights off future illnesses.

Negativity

Pessimism is never a good outlook on life. A lot of times, negativity causes stress, which releases cortisol. If you continue to be negative, your health spirals downward.

To prevent stress, you need to evaluate your purpose in life. Then, take another look and find joy in the small things to destress.

There are many surprising things that negatively impact the immune system. However, as you learn more about the causes, you can retake control and improve your health by thinking positively and taking care of yourself.