Prolonged stress and tension during these difficult times may lead to a compromised immune system. It may also result in a general lack of energy, “run down” feelings, lethargy and a pattern of physical ailments. Colds, infections, fatigue and malaise may all be linked to compromised immunity system. Constant stress and anxiety are often large contributors to an overall physical vulnerability. These are signals, alerting you that it’s time to make a few simple changes in your life, leading to a stronger and healthier immune system, in a natural and healthful way.
Support Your Immune System
– Slow Down and practice self-nurturing by making better nutrition and lifestyle choices.
– Strengthen your Immune System More whole foods, Less refined and processed foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables, Whole Grains, Plenty of rest – Exercise Program, Oxygenate the body outdoors in fresh air,.
– Cut Back On – Animal Fats – Sugar – Alcohol – Caffeine – Highly processed carbohydrates (mixes, instant foods, fast foods, sweets)
Prositive Foods and Nutrients
Phytonutrients: Protect the body and fight disease: Examples: Spinach, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Squash- Supply Beta carotene Oils for vitamin E (Natural Virgin Olive Oil) Citrus Fruits for Vitamin C (Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes)
Protein rich foods: Lean poultry fish and meats. Salmon and Mackeral enhance immune system
High Immunity Foods: Shitake and Mitake Mushrooms.
Hydrate: Black or Green Tea (decaffeinated recommended)… also plenty of pure water. Chamomile, Echinacea, Garlic, Astragalus.
Aim for a variety in foods to cover all essential nutrients.
Factors that Compromise Immunity:
Too much sugar (simple carbohydrates-candy, soda, sweets),
High cholesterol
Alcohol
Too much Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen or Aspirin
Excess Sugar and Salt in diet
High cortisol levels add to lowered serotonin levels, which stresses immune system.
Avoid Fluorescent lights for long periods of time
Overuse of electrical equipment
Cellular phones
Anger compromises immunity for up to 6 hours.
Elevated blood pressure is a compromise.
Codeine.
Heightened Adrenaline levels.
Electro-magnetic waves.
Over-use of Antibiotics.
Food Facts
SUGAR: Hinders immunity: – Leaves body vulnerable to infections. – Heavy sugar consumption adversely affects white cells – Large contributing factor to damaged immunity – Even small amounts of simple carbohydrates (sugar, soda, candy) reduces the ability of white blood cells to fight and annihilate bacteria.
– Complex carbohydrates (healthy carbs) are highly recommended since they do not have the same negative effect as simple carbohydrates.
Lifestyle Changes
Outdoor activity on a daily basis.
Wholesome diet/nutrition plan
Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and avoidance of stimulants.
Swimming in cold water increases body’s resistance to bacteria and viral infections.
Eight hours sleep and relaxation.
Exercise Regularly- 20 minutes, 3x a week (walk, hike, swim or bike)
Decrease Stress- Learn art of detachment as you crowd out life’s stresses with positive interests, people and activities. Connect to your power people- Surround yourself with intelligent individuals who add to your life rather than detract.
Steam and stir fry foods. Bitter foods over sweet ones.
Maintain a clean and tidy (Hygienic) home. Natural Hygienic Products
Morning sunlight strengthens immune system. Sunlight before 10:00 AM and after 4:00 PM (not overexposure). Sunburn is a stress on the immune system.
Avoid electric blankets (AC currents).
Vitamins: Vitamin A, Zinc, Vitamin C, B Vitamin Complex, Vitamin E and Selenium Beta Carotene, Bioflavanoids, Garlic, Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Now is the time to naturally strengthen your immune system. Simple changes in nutrition and lifestyle boost compromised immunity and lead to a healthier and stronger mind and body. It’s always a choice. You have the power rebuild your immunity and experience a healthier life. Take the challenge and live your life to the fullest, both naturally and simply, as you make healthy choices that support a healthy immune system.
