Working to seek and destroy any lurking viruses or bacteria, the immune system serves as our body’s personal army, battling the disease on the front lines. Just like any warrior, the stronger the immune system, the better chance it has of defeating its enemy. Here’s how you can ensure that your immune system is ready for action:
FEAST ON THIS
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that good nutrition is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy immune system – you are what you eat after all. Foods rich in antioxidants, (vitamin C among the most important) help to remove harmful toxins from the body that can negatively impact the immune system. Munch on some broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, or peppers!
MASSAGE
Regular massage therapy is great for more than just relaxation – it increases the body’s natural killer cells, aids in the fight against bacteria and infection, and naturally enhances the body’s ability to get nourishment to important areas. Why not keep your immune system performing at its peak with a 90-minute massage therapy session at Massage Envy? Remember to drink sufficient water to flush the toxins out of your system.
GET YOUR SWEAT ON
We gave you plenty of great reasons to get your sweat on in last week’s blog post Why Finishing Last is Better Than Not Finishing At All. But, just in case you need some extra motivation to hit the gym – regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy immune system by increasing antibodies and improving natural killer cell responses. Keep in mind that you do not have to engage in vigorous activity to strengthen your immunity; you can reap the immune-boosting benefits from just 20 – 30 minutes of exercise, five days per week.
GET SOME ZZZ’S
Sleep helps the entire body rest and regenerate; skimping on the recommended seven to eight hours of shuteye nightly impairs your body’s immune system, making you more vulnerable to illness and slowing the rate of recovery. Take a mid-afternoon nap or hit the sack early to allow your body to replenish its army of white blood cells, naturally equipped to protect you from infection and disease.
DRINK UP
The importance of being well hydrated can not be overemphasized – water comprises between 50 – 60 percent of the body and is so vital to its overall function that you would die without it in a matter of days.
However, this doesn’t mean it’s our body’s only defense in battling unwanted visitors; green tea, orange juice, and even coffee are other liquids that can help you stay healthy and illness-free.
Although these suggestions are far from a cure for the common cold, they’ll certainly help to keep your immune system functioning at its best. Keep in mind that your body is facing a constant, uphill battle against bacteria and infection – unless you’re entertaining the idea of living in a bubble, it’s best to send in some reinforcement. Let these simple lifestyle changes transform your body into a mean, lean, infection-fighting machine.
