Whether you’re trying to ward off the seasonal flu, the common cold, or just want to get healthier, there are somenatural methodto strengthen your immune system. A properly functioning immune system has all the functions needed to fight diseases such as seasonal flu and the common cold, and can even help the body fight off more serious diseases such as swine (bird) flu and cancer.
There are many natural ways to improve a person’simmunityand here are nine of the methods:
For effective immune system support, eat foods rich inantioxidant fooddiet. Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants. Next, also choose healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish, flaxseed and krill oil.Adding garlic and ginger to your diet can also help with natural enhancementimmunity. Staying hydrated is also important!
Water is necessary for the body to function properly and to keep the immune system in top shape. If you don’t drink enough water, your body becomes fatigued, your skin may become dry, and you may start to get headaches, which can leave your body in a state where it cannot fight off illnesses, including the flu.
2. Add herbs and supplements to your diet
While research on whether vitamin C can boost immunity is inconclusive, studies have shown that this vitamin can help reduce the number of colds a person gets. The caveat here is that it needs to be taken on a regular basis, not just when you start to feel cold. Herbs like echinacea and elderberry can help shorten the duration of cold symptoms. Taking these medications at the first sign of a cold can help reduce the amount of time you are miserable.
eliminate foodhypersensitivityThe first step is to identify what food allergies or intolerances you have. This can be done by visiting an allergist or naturopathic doctor. Once an allergen has been identified, an allergist or naturopathic doctor will help you desensitize it, or help you eliminate it from your diet entirely. Once these allergens are cleared from your environment, your immune system will be able to function normally and focus on killing germs, such as seasonal flu.
4. Get regular exercise
Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes a day, can help mobilize the body’s white blood cells. These cells are responsible for defending against infections such as seasonal flu.
5. Reduce exposure to environmental toxins
One of the best preventive measures you can take is to limit your exposure to environmental toxins. Prolonged exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, cleaning products, etc. can stress a person’s immune system. A stressed immune system can make you more susceptible to illnesses like seasonal flu. Try to buy eco-friendly and natural cleaning products to reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals. While they may be a little more expensive than traditional cleaning products, this is a simple preventive measure you can take to protect yourself.
6. Learn to cope with stress
While occasional stress can actually help build your immune system, chronic stress can suppress your immune system. For some, stress is seasonal. For example, some people experience more stress during the holidays, others at tax time, and so on. A preventative step we can take is to learn how to handle stress in an appropriate manner. Suggestions for coping with stress include meditation, yoga, physical activity, or talking to a counselor.
7. Wash your hands
One of the easiest and most cost-effective preventive measures to stop the spread of diseases like seasonal flu is to wash your hands. It may seem simple, but many people do not practice effective hygiene habits, such as washing their hands.
8. Get enough sleep
Another preventive measure to avoid getting sick is to get 8 hours of adequate sleep. In addition to feeling better rested and more refreshed, it also helps stabilize a person’s immune system.
9. Make spinal adjustments
Another preventive measure that can help boost your immunity naturally is to see a chiropractor. The human nervous system is responsible for the normal functioning of the immune system. Chiropractic adjustments will help restore normal function to the nervous system so it can function properly to help combat illnesses such as seasonal flu. “Maintenance” chiropractic care means preventative care—regular visits to your chiropractor for adjustments, even when pain isn’t present. This natural approach to health care is another preventive step you can take to ensure your immune system is performing to its maximum potential year-round.
This article was originally published on BelMarraHealth.com and authorized to be translated and reprinted by The Epoch Times in English. For the English report, please see:Boost Your Immunity the Natural Way。
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