Each and every one of us is born with a genetic blueprint. That blueprint tells our bodies how to respond to foreign invaders that cause sickness and disease. While some of us have "stronger" immunity than others, research now tells us that our lifestyle directly impacts our immune function.
Meaning, you have the ability to boost your immune system!!
Read below for 5 ways to boost your immune system-- naturally and effectively!
1. Fruits and Vegetables
Yes, yes I know, another person telling you to eat more of the leafy stuff. But eating fruits and vegetables is so much more than just a salad. You can boost your immunity with SO many different types of plant foods. If you don't like spinach, don't eat it. If you like mangoes, eat them! In fact, did you know that yellow, orange, and red produce has a nutrient called beta carotene. Beta carotene functions as a POWERFUL antioxidant in your body, fighting disease head on!
2. Reduce stress
Those practicing daily meditation really are doing it right when it comes to having a strong and healthy immune system1. But, stress reduction can come in so many different forms. The more enjoyable it is to YOU, the more beneficial it will be. Lets face it, if the idea of doing yoga poses on a mat for an hour sounds awful to you, chances are you're not getting those relaxing benefits from it that others do. But if the idea of walking in a park sounds relaxing, do that! Find something that you really love whether it is reading, painting, singing, taking a bath, or even cooking.
3. Heal your gut
In the past 5 years, research behind gut health has exploded! We now know that gut health is beneficial for everything from improved skin health to reducing anxiety and depression. One more thing that benefits is your immunity2! But, what exactly is good gut health? To summarize it, good gut health is getting good bacteria into your gut and nurturing those bacteria through a well rounded diet. Good gut bugs LOVE high fiber foods like whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts and seeds.
Try this Super Greens Powder that has different plant foods and good bacteria!
4. Sleep
Did you know that getting those zzz's every night can actually help fend off sickness3,4? It is interesting that when we are sick our body naturally tells us to sleep more. Make sure you are getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Some helpful things to do before bed include reducing blue light from screens, drinking a calming tea like chamomile, and writing in a journal.
For more tips on getting a good nights sleep read Tips for a Good Night's Sleep.
5. Green Tea
Now, I was going to say drink more water. But, we all know how truly important staying hydrated is for immunity. This is because our lymphatic system needs fluids to function properly. But, I decided to tell you about Green Tea as one of those fluids you could be drinking. Green tea contains powerful substances called flavonoids. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Basically, they are disease fighting powerhouses!
Whether you do everything on this list every day, or just one of them, you are helping to boost your immune system naturally!
Article written by guest contributor Rosemary Squires, MA, RD, CDN at www.thehintofrosemary.com