Unfortunately this time of the year, is when many people are getting sick with colds, the flu, and now the Corona virus, also known as COVID-19. We need to be proactive about our health, and boosting our immune system is one way to do this. Although, this is not a guarantee that you won't get sick, it can give you body a better chance at fighting illness.
What is the Immune System
The immune system is comprised of white blood cells, antibodies, and other chemicals within the body that fight against bacteria and viruses that they recognize as foreign to the body's normal system. Up to 70% of our immune system can be found in the walls of the colon. Because of this, an imbalance in our gut health can lead to inflammatory responses throughout the body.
Today, I want to share some practical ways to help boost your immune system, and prayerfully, give your body an increased chance at staying well.
Fresh is Best
Our bodies need vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, and K, and eating fresh fruits and vegetables are a great way to obtain these vitamins. As our bodies digest these delicious foods, the nutrients are absorbed within the body and can then boost the immune system.
Move Something
Some believe that exercise can change the white blood cells and antibodies within our bodies, thereby, making them sharper at detecting foreign bacteria and viruses within the body. In doing so, our body's immune system can respond much faster at fighting illnesses. Although this may be beneficial, there is no evidence to show that exercise will prevent illness.
It is important NOT TO OVERDO IT. Extreme bouts of exercise can be just as harmful as not moving at all. It is important to remember that exercise is still a type of stress on the body. So, moderate forms of exercise 3-5 times a week can be beneficial and proactive at managing your health. A few types of moderate exercise include:
Walking 30 minutes a day
Riding your bike 20-30 a day
If you already participate in a more rigorous fitness routine, try implementing some recovery workouts to help your body stay well.
Spice Things Up a Little
Spices like turmeric, garlic, and ginger are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties to help boost our body's natural defense against illnesses. So try adding adding a little spice in your meals each day to promote health and well-being.
Bulk up, Buttercup
Fiber improves the production of a protein called interleukin -4, which helps to "bulk-up" the t-cells, which is our immune system's natural defense for fighting illnesses.
Sweet Dreams
While many of us are so busy with our hectic schedules, that getting a solid 7-8 hours of sleep seems unrealistic. Studies show that not getting adequate amounts of sleep can cause adverse effects on our health, so make sure you get your rest.
Cut the Crap
Sugar filled foods like candy, cake, and cookies, can suppress the body's immune response for several hours after ingesting. So, if your diet primarily consists of high amounts of sugar -- you may want to rethink your diet. Not sure on how to get started? Book a strategy session with me today to get started!
Clean up Your Beauty Rituals
The phrase toxic beauty refers to beauty and personal care products that contain harmful substances. Ingredients like parabens, formaldehyde, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial fragrance, and perfumes, just to name a few, are endocrine disruptors. Which means is can interrupt the natural balance or homeostasis within our bodies. Not only can it cause tumors, birth defects, but they also compromise our immune system.
This doesn't mean that you can't enjoy cosmetics or taking care of yourself. There are clean beauty products that you can enjoy, whose mission is to bring you high-quality products that are made with natural ingredients.
For example, Naturally Yours Beauty and Wellness, promotes holistic wellness by providing effective, plant-based formulas that complement your efforts to live well, without compromising your immune system. Our top selling shampoo is made with natural ingredients like aloe vera, white willow bark, and hibiscus to gently cleanse your hair.
To find out more about our clean beauty and wellness products. Stop by our shop.
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