Our immune system is just as critical to normal bodily function as the respiratory, circulatory or nervous system. And if you’re the sort of person that tends to catch everything that's going round, from measles to the common cold, you know how important it is also! Today we're looking at the five kindest things you can possibly do for your immune system, from herbal supplements to sleep.
Immune Booster 1: Diet
This is critical to preventing and treating so many different conditions. Yet people continue to eat processed foods, ignore the fruit and veges, and load up on the saturated fats. It is in part due to our modern lifestyle -- fruit and veggies can take significantly longer to prepare than ripping the wrapper off a muesli bar … so the choice is obvious. But if you don't want to catch a cold by looking at someone sneezing across the street, you need to make that time! Your diet can be helped by whole food supplements, but they certainly don’t make up for a processed-food diet.
Immune Booster 2: Sleep
Studies are starting to show us just how vital sleep is to normal bodily function. It is during this time that immune cells like killer T cells, helper T cells and B cells are being regenerated, and also that they are fighting any latent infections. Have eight hours now to save yourself eight days off work later!
Immune Booster 3: Water
Chronic dehydration is common in the Western World -- in places where the most abundant sources of clean fresh water are found. Chronic dehydration stresses many bodily systems, including the immune system. Drink water, not coffee or cola.
Immune Booster 4: Herbal Supplements
In some people's bodies, energy and nutrient resources are prioritized differently -- in some cases they are prioritized away from the immune system. Herbal supplements containing extracts like elderberry and seaweed are particularly good for stimulating immune function. Take them as a preventive rather than curative -- every day during flu season is advisable.
Immune Booster 5: Quit the sugar
Sugar can become addictive just as quickly as any other prescription or non-prescription drug can. Your body builds a tolerance, and then needs more and more. It's a vicious cycle that results in damage to the pancreas, liver and brain -- the entire body is affected. Make your own cakes, biscuits and sweets with healthier sugars such as stevia or agave, keep them in the freezer and avoid temptation.
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