52 weeks of good health....

every week I will share with you a tip to improve your eating habits or lifestyle to help you reach maximum energy levels and increase overall physical and emotional health.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Boost up Your Immunity

It's that time of year again...the season's are changing, the weather's getting colder and coughs and sniffles must be right around the corner...right? No one likes to get sick or feel run down, so this year why don't you try to be proactive with your health and keep your immune system running at optimum performance. There are lots of natural ways to do this and if you've already been following many of my tips, then chances are you are already on your way!

pH Balance - I talked before about pH balance and the effect it has on your body; a good pH level supports healthy bacteria growth and wards off viruses. Approximately, 70% of our diet should come from alkaline foods and 30% acidic in order to maintain a balance. Eat veggies throughout the day, take a green supplement (a green drink a day has so many health benefits!), and avoid acid forming and acidic foods and your body's pH level will gradually be balanced.

Get a full nights sleep - sleep has been linked to hormone levels; including human growth hormone and the stress hormone, cortisol. When are bodies are stressed, it depresses our immune system.

Get enough protein - protein is the building block for a healthy body, mind and immune system. Diets low in protein are often higher in carbs; and too many refined carbs can spike the blood sugar, which can stress the immune system.

Avoid refined white sugar - if there is only one thing that you want to do to improve your immune system, this should be the one! It can rob your body of needed vitamins and minerals.

Include more fruits & vegetables - if you have not already increased your consumption of fruits and veg, this is a great time of year to do it, especially dark colour produce (which contain vitamin C and antioxidants). Your body will benefit from the additional vitamins and minerals, which will protect your immune system from damage from toxins.

Get outside - even in the cold weather, it's good to get outside, get some exercise and breathe some fresh air!

and lastly....

Nurture youself - since stress has such a negative impact on your immune system, it only makes sense to take care of yourself; indulge in that massage, have dinner with friends, take a hot bath. Pay attention to your body and make sure that you take a step back if you are starting to feel run down...when you're happy, you're actually less likely to get sick!

If you can pick at least 3 of these tips and stick to them, you will substantially improve your immunity!

In good health,
Wendy


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