Cold and Flu season is here! What are you doing to give your immune system an extra boost? While it is important to maintain a healthy immune system all year long, it is especially important during times when your immune system will be under additional stress. Below you will find 5 ways to start boosting your immune system today, so you can ensure a happy and healthy season ahead!
- Have your nervous system checked by a chiropractor. Since the nervous system is the master control system of the entire body, every other system in the body will suffer if the nervous system is operating at a less than optimal state. The nervous system and the immune system work closely together to allow you to respond and adapt to your environment, including the ability to fight off bad bacteria and viruses. Learn more about chiropractic and your health here.
- Eat more fruits and veggies. Much of what is found in the grocery store today is processed and packaged. It isn’t even real food, but we fall victim to it because it is quick and convenient. The old saying, “You are what we eat,” is true. The food you give your body will be used to produce the cells that make up your body. Your body deserves real food! It desires real food! I challenge you today to begin eating one raw fruit or veggie at every meal. Also, consider using a supplement to help bridge the nutritional gap in your diet. Juice Plus is a fantastic, research based, whole food supplement that is designed to do just that.
- Drink plenty of water. You should be drinking enough water to turn your urine a very light yellow color. Most people need about half of their body weight in ounces in water a day. Therefore, if you weigh 150 lbs, you would strive to drink about 75 ounces of water per day. The key is to drink it slowly throughout the day. Adequate water intake will aid in proper digestion and absorption as well as removing toxins from the body.
- Exercise regularly. Exercising boosts the production of macrophages in your body, which are the cells responsible for attacking bacteria. If you are currently not on a workout routine, start slow and simple. Walking for 20-30 minutes 3-5 days a week could be a good starting point, and the intensity and frequency can be adjusted as necessary. The key is to get into a consistent routine.
- Don’t sacrifice your sleep. Sleeping is extremely important and CANNOT be replaced by anything! The body is able to repair and heal at its best during sleep. You should strive for 7-9 hours of sleep a night. If your sleep pattern doesn’t allow for adequate sleep, start going to bed 30 minutes earlier until you are able to get at least 7 hours consistently.