Fresh New Ways to Boost Your Immune System

By Donna Stark

Are you the type of person that always seems to get sick? Does it feel as if you belong to the "virus of the week" club? If so, you probably already have a routine to help boost your immunity that consists of Vitamin C, plenty of rest, and only the healthiest of foods. But did you know there are even more things you can do to reduce the risk of illness? Take a look at a few suggestions below that aren't as well known as the others but that can make as much of an impact on how well you feel.

Stop Slathering and Sterilizing

Believe it or not, the human body needs to get dirty, so maybe it's time to stop buying your antibacterial gel by the gallons and to stop sterilizing every inch of your home. In fact, you might even want to consider skipping a day of cleaning and using that time to participate in a mud run! Why? Because every time you expose yourself to dirt, germs, and bacteria (gasp!), you are giving your immune system an opportunity to become stronger.

Brew a Cup of Green Tea

You may just want to push your cup of coffee to the side and opt for some freshly brewed green tea. Green is loaded with powerful antioxidants that will help your body's defense system fight the common illnesses that plague your days. Just be sure to keep an eye on the amount of caffeine in each cup. You certainly don't want this to disrupt your sleep.

Find Your Zen

Have you ever longed for some time to yourself after a particularly stressful day? Doesn't the peace and quiet feel good? Well, your immune system has those same cravings too, so why don't you incorporate some extra zen into your life? Meditation has been shown to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of colds and the flu. Hello peace and quiet, goodbye viruses and bacteria!

Get Smelly

Don't worry, this suggestion doesn't mean you need to stop showering. What it does mean, though, is that you should consume more garlic. The antiviral and antimicrobial properties found in garlic can help fight everything from the common cold to the worst of flus, but don't start cooking it yet. If you want the most protection available, you have to eat it raw.

Building a Strong Immune System

Just because you have some new strategies to try doesn't mean you should stop following your normal routine. Keep taking those vitamins, continue to get your rest, and eat plenty of healthy foods. When it comes to immune support, it's never a bad idea to do as much as you can.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clovis, Calif.