Even the healthiest of people get sick occasionally, but by looking after yourself and getting some healthy habits into your life, you give yourself the best chance possible to dodge colds and flu, when everyone else is coughing and spluttering around you.
Diet, sleep and stress are major factors that contribute towards immune efficiency, so get on top of these and your immune system will be able to keep a strong defense against bacteria, viruses and toxic chemicals. Let’s take a look at the top ways you can boost your immune defenses.
Exercise Regularly
Getting a regular workout routine can help to mobilise a type of white blood cell in your body, which guards the body against infection. A study of 115 women in 2006, had them brisk walking for 30 mins at a time daily over a year, which showed that they halved their risk of colds and flu, compared to the group who did no exercise.
A Healthy Diet
Fill your diet with natural fruits and vegetables as these contain antioxidants, which combat free radicals (known to suppress the immune system and damage DNA). Omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish and flaxseed, may also support immune health by enhancing the immune response. Garlic is not only delicious, but has superhero powers possessing virus fighting and bacteria killing properties.
Daily Supplementation
To support your healthy diet, add in natural supplements such as; Echinacea, capsicum, zinc, vitamin c and ginger. The Echnamune Pluss 60s from Silberhorn contain all these immune supporting ingredients and more to help keep your immune system strong.
Reduce Stress Levels
Previous research has shown that chronic, prolonged amounts of stress can weaken the immune system and increase the likeliness of you getting ill. Make sure you take time each day to have some time to yourself, whether it’s reading a book in the evening, practicing meditation, taking part in a yoga or tai chi class or just watching a movie.
Get Enough Sleep
Having enough sleep is vital for the immune system and without it, you are more susceptible to colds, flu and coughs. According to research, during sleep our bodies create more of the immune cells we need to ward off nasty pathogens, so make sure you’re getting enough!
Keep Your Hands Clean
A simple but effective way to ward off illness according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Aim to wash your hands for at least 15-20 seconds, especially after sneezing, coughing, touching public surfaces and going to the bathroom.