A recent integrative medicine article I read spoke about these 4 ways to help boost your immune system. These are simple things you and your kids can do to help stay healthy this summer!
- Get adequate SLEEP- Sleep has a significant affect on how well the immune system functions. A persistent lack of sleep has been associated with an increase of illness.
- Reduce Stress- Stress increases our risk of getting all kinds of sicknesses, so finding a way to unwind and put your mind and body at rest can be helpful. Whether you enjoy yoga, tai chi, long walks, guided imagery, meditation, or deep breathing, the important point is to turn them into a practice by engaging in one or more daily.
- Eat healthy foods- We all know what we eat matters. So during this time it would be beneficial to make some healthier choices. Eating foods that help decrease inflammation, like an anti-inflammatory diet. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish, keeping our blood sugar from spiking by avoiding processed food and simple carbs, and eating lots of vegetables and fruits are important. Some specific vegetables and fruits are particularly adept as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents; these include onions, garlic, parsley, celery, apples, tomatoes, oranges, nuts, and berries. Spices such as curcumin and turmeric can also reduce inflammation.
- Supplements may help- Specifically Zinc and Vitamin C has been shown to help fight infections and support the immune system.
Sarah Caudle- PAC
