The immune system is one of the most important systems in the body as it is our bodies’ defense against organisms that make us sick. We must do all that we can to build this system up and keep it healthy and working correctly in order to allow it to work in keeping us well. These ten tips will help you to build the system up so that it does work properly and help to keep you healthier.
1. Eat a balanced diet. This may seem like a no- brainer, but to many people it is not. A balanced diet needs to include fruits and vegetables or all kinds as they contain powerful antioxidants that will strengthen the immune system.
2. Drink plenty of fluids. This one seems to be fairly simple too. After all, it is one of the most common cures for a cold or the flu. However, it needs to be water or a low sugar beverage that allows the body to stay hydrated properly. Fluids of this nature will also help to rid the body of toxins and aid in circulation. If the body becomes dehydrated, it is prone to illness and infection.
3. Get plenty of rest. Another phrase that we hear often and probably the one that we most ignore. While sleeping, the body is renewing itself and that renewal will increase the ability for the immune system to work better. Most adults need 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep, but most of us are lucky to get that many. Taking a nap during the day can be beneficial, but not as healthy as the uninterrupted nightly 8 hours.
4. Get appropriate vaccinations. We all know how important childhood immunizations are, but we forget that there are vaccinations that we as adults can get too. Remember the seasonal shots that are available and get them. This will include a seasonal flu shot each year.
5. Get regular physical activity. The immune system and the cardiovascular systems will both benefit from this tip. Exercise will deliver oxygen to the cardiovascular system and the nutrients will tone up and build up your muscle which will boost your immune system. Twenty minutes of exercise 3 times per week is a great immune system booster.
6. See your doctor routinely. Seeing your doctor on a regular basis will allow you to have routine check-ups and will allow him or her to manage chronic medical conditions. Feel free to ask questions about your immune system and ask for suggestions that the doctor can recommend that will increase your chance at staying healthier.
7. Keep your home environment clean. If your home is clean, you will be healthier. Also, you need to disinfect your home regularly. Viruses can enter a home and spread over surfaces that are shared by family members and quickly spread to make everyone sick. Viruses can live 8 hours on surfaces like door knobs, bathroom and kitchen sinks, and telephones. Be sure that all of these areas of your home are cleaned and sanitized on a regular daily basis.
8. Avoid smoking. Most everyone these days know that smoking is extremely unhealthy. However, smoking is a major threat to the immune system. Stop smoking and avoid second hand smoke and your immune system will get stronger.
9. Keep stress levels down. Stress is unhealthy for anyone. Constant stress will weaken the immune system and cause chronic inflammation to the immune system which will allow us to become sick much easier. Stress levels need to be as low as possible all of the time.
10. Watch what you eat. Eating a large amount of protein will build the immune system up. However, eliminating raw sugar from your diet will help to increase the ability that the immune system has to build itself up and keep you well. The old saying ‘You are what you eat” should be ” your health will be what you eat.
Just remember that several of these ideas are not just to help build the immune system, but overall rules to stay healthy and live a long and prosperous life.
