Most of us have been warned about what to do to protect our selves from the Swine Flu like washing your hands frequently and coughing into your elbow or tissue. We still want to do those things, but our biggest and best defense is a healthy immune system.  More than anything else your immune system must be strong enough to fight off viruses and other illness.

How do we build up our immune systems? Here are some basics:

• Consume whole foods as part of a well balanced food plan and eat less processed foods. You will obtain more nutrients and antioxidants which help fight off illnesses.


• Avoid sugar and white flour products (chips, white crackers/breads, pretzels, muffins, etc.) as they negatively impact the immune system upon consumption. Be aware that sugar is present in numerous foods that you may not even think about, like condiments and even fruit juice. Especially avoid sports drinks/sodas where you'll easily pick up about 13 teaspoons of sugar in a mere cup and a half serving.


• Get enough sleep! When you are tired it is more difficult for your immune system to fight off viruses. Your body needs to rejuvenate and strengthen itself regularly and this is one way it does it.


• Learn positive coping measures to cope with stress. Avoid "comfort food eating." (I know it's a lot easier to say than do!)


• Exercise is a double bonus immune enhancer. Movement activates the release of immunostimulatory factors which then turns on various populations of our immune cells and it also helps your body get rid of toxins. As a double bonus exercise decreases your stress level.


• Drink your eight glasses of pure filtered water daily. This also helps get rid of toxins.

Later in the week  I'll discuss some other things which can help protect you from illness!

---

Orignal From: Prevent Swine Flu

发贴者 healthlifeblog 时间： 5/02/2009