Every day we are exposed to chemicals in the air, our food and our homes. While some of it is beyond our control there are several simple things we can do for better health and to enhance our immune systems. Taking care of our bodies and helping our immune system is not difficult at all, it just requires some discipline. Here are a few things you can do.
1. A proper diet is essential for good health, and especially lots of antioxidant rich fruit and vegetables. It's recommended we get at least 6 to 8 servings a day. It's also to our benefit to avoid sugar. Just a small amount of sugar can impair white blood cells and make us more prone to infections. Eliminating sugar is a great thing to do to boost your immune system.
Of course we know sugar intake can cause obesity however it also can be linked to digestive problems, bacterial and fungal infections, diabetes and high cholesterol. If we crave something sweet the natural sugar in fruit is fine but we should avoid it otherwise. Sugar can depress the immune system which makes us more prone to infections.
2. Get enough sleep. During deep sleep, our bodies release potent immune-enhancing substances that strengthen our defenses. By not allowing our body sufficient rest, the immune system will not function at full capacity. When our immune systems are weakened we are more likely to get sick. A healthy, deep sleep allows the body to release a significant amount of growth hormone that boosts the immune system and aids in the growth and repair of our cells.
3. Drink plenty of water. We need to be well hydrated to regulate body temperature and so the nutrients can travel to all your organs. Water also transports oxygen to your cells, removes waste, and protects your joints and organs.
A lot of people don't get enough water. Symptoms of mild dehydration include chronic pains in joints and muscles, lower back pain, headaches and constipation. Thirst is an obvious sign of dehydration however your body needs water long before you feel thirsty.
Water is the very best source of fluid intake and we should not depend on getting it from juices or coffee or tea. Juices of course are good if there is no added sugar but we still need water daily.
4. Nurture yourself. Our bodies respond to our emotions. If you're feeling tired or worried, it can manifest itself in a cold or something else. Spending some time in being grateful, listening to a good CD or relaxing music will help. Don't ignore warning signs of a cold or exhaustion or whatever it might be so you can keep them from getting worse. When you're happy, and you have taken the time to look after yourself illness is less likely to happen. It's important we have the right mental attitude.
5. Avoid chemicals in your home and in personal care products. Many people are not aware of the toxic chemicals in their facial cleansers, makeup, and other personal care products. Our skin absorbs what we put on it, and for our health we should use products that are safe and toxin free.
The same is true of cleaning products for our homes. There are many safe alternatives now so we don't need to use poison to clean our homes.
6. Detoxify. Everyone needs to detox their body from heavy metals, pesticides, chemicals and other poisons. These chemicals can contribute to many health problems and can disrupt hormones and affect the body's ability to absorb the nutrients that it needs.
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