Friday, March 1, 2013

What Can You Do To Boost Your Immunity?

By Emily Baker


Even if your immune system is typically pretty strong, it seems hard to avoid sick at least once every once in a while. And what about those poor souls who tend to have lower immune systems from the get-go? A majority of their winter months are probably spent stuck in bed, stocking up on tissues and OTC cold and flu medicines. But fear not, because it doesn't have to be this way any more! This article aims to explain to you some ways to help optimize your immune system so that its in its strongest form ever.

For starters, your diet is the cornerstone of your immune system strength, since the food we feed ourselves is truly our bodies fuel, and to run with optimum performance, we need to be running on the most efficient and cleanest fuel possible. It is absolutely essential to incorporate as many fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet as possible, and keep it to a minimum with foods high in fat or sugar. A general rule of thumb: if it is raw, it is good for you; if it is processed, it is bad for you.

Vitamins A, B, C and E are also wonderful for your immune system, as are antioxidants, so consuming foods high in all of those is a great way to boost your immune system. A diet heavy in greens (such as kale, spinach and broccoli) as well as plenty of other veggies and fruits (especially mushrooms, carrots, sweet potatoes, nuts, seeds, berries, bell peppers, citrus fruits, and even lean meats) can be healthy staples of your diet that will help encourage the strongest immune system possible. All of the vitamins and minerals contained within help the body to fight off infections easier and are simply good for your overall health in general.

Other lifestyle choices (and those which often easily accompany a good diet) will help to strengthen your immune system as well, including exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping your stress levels low. Exercise gets your blood pumping and your body naturally gets into gear for high performance. Even 30 minutes of moderate cardio 5 times a week will be a huge change for your body.

In addition, don't forget three other simple things that will keep you healthier in general and your immune system as high as possible: wash your hands, get adequate and restful sleep, and drink only in moderation.




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