How to Keep Your Immune System Up to Speed
By Sandy Schroeder
In today's world, everybody talks about immunity, but we may forget to follow through. In today's chaotic world, the focus on immunity is huge but often ineffective. We know about zinc and Vitamins D and C, but need to do more work on immunity.
What Do You Do for Your Immune System?
Here are some questions to consider if you want to make you immune system right.
Do you get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep every night? - Consistent rest helps the body rebuild and repair to be ready for the next day. Go to bed at the same time each night and create a good sleep ritual such as a warm bath, soft music and a healthy snack.
Is your diet filled with essential nutrients? - Fill your shopping cart with red, yellow and green produce and create fresh menus with your family's favorites. Then sit down to family meals in the evening.
Do you have ways to successfully handle stress? - Find a way to offload daily stress. Take short walks, listen to music, talk with friends, do yoga or tai chi, and get outside to let the sun and breezes lift your spirit.
Do you exercise 30 minutes daily? - Find comfortable spots for 10, 15 or 20 minutes of exercise. Walk, run, bike, stretch or lift weights to tone your body and stimulate your brain.
Stay in touch - Reach out to friends, family and co-workers to share experiences, talk about life or plan lunches, dinners or weekend excursions.
Your immune system produces over 100 billion immune cells daily in a 24/7 operation. How do you support that system?
Use premium fuel - Power your immune system with fresh fruit and vegetables full of valuable vitamins and nutrients. Also add lean protein with poultry, lean meats, fatty fish, olive oil, whole grains and low-fat dairy. The Mediterranean diet is a good model. Put these on your shopping list.
- Black beans
- Berries
- Citrus
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Celery
- Spinach
- Brussels sprouts
- Onions
- Green beans
- Peas
- Peppers
- Apples
- Pears
- Peaches
- Figs
- Pineapple
- Apricot
- Green beans
Create a daily ritual for yourself that helps your immune system fight all of today's challenges. To make sure you are on the right track, check in with your doctor to review your weight, blood pressure, sugar levels and overall health. Discuss any needed changes such as weight loss, stress reduction and exercise routines. Then get started turning everything around with a better immune system.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Universal City, Tex.