How to Have a Healthy Immune System

It's tough nowadays to focus on personal health. We are constantly distracted by work, school, family, or other commitments and sometimes lose track of our own well being. It is very important for us to take excellent care of our bodies - in return our quality of life will increase drastically!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   EXERCISE! Do everything you can to stay active. Regular exercise will give you a very strong immune system. Cardio workouts like jogging are excellent for your heart, lungs and overall health. Try to workout at least 3 times per week!

2. 
    

   EAT HEALTHY! Eat a well balanced diet. I highly recommend eating organic food whenever possible! If you are very active, make sure you eat lots of protein rich foods. Humans need to eat lots of fruit and vegetables in order to obtain proper vitamin and mineral absorption. I also recommend eating lots of fiber, antioxidants (found in foods such as blueberries and prunes) and probiotics (i.e. acidophilus which is found in yogurt). Try to avoid fast food (fatty and sugary foods) whenever possible.

3. 
    

   SLEEP MORE & REDUCE STRESS! Make sure you're getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night. If you're not fulfilling complete REM cycles each night, your body will not be able to repair itself properly and you will become unhealthy. In order to reduce stress, try things like exercising, meditating (yoga and pilates are great), or simply reading a book in a quiet location.

Tips & Warnings

• Having a happy, positive outlook on life also contributes to having a strong immune system - your body knows you better than you think!
• Don't over do anything - make sure you have a nice balance in your life - i.e. if you're very active make sure you still leave time for yourself to unwind and relax at the end of the day.

[MaryKBrennan]

on 2/9/2009 I miss sleep. Is there such thing when you have kids? Good advice. Thanks.

[bossypants]

on 2/8/2009 Good basic reminders to take care of ourselves for improved immunity. Thanks!