There’s no fun in being down and out with a cold. At best, it makes you cranky and tired, but at its worst, sickness can take you out of commission for some time and make you to miss events and work. There are a number of ways in which to keep colds and the flu at bay and keep your immune system at its very best.
EAT HEALTHY & BALANCED FOOD: One easily controlled way to keep your immune system strong is to eat properly. We have access to a staggering amount of food, and an even greater amount of products disguising themselves as food. Processed “food” lines the shelves of grocery stores and even our box stores, full of sugar, sodium, and a range of chemicals and preservatives that our bodies don’t need and should in fact avoid. If your diet is high in processed food, your body simply doesn’t get the nutrition it needs to maintain good health. Fresh is best, and fresh local is even better. Take a look at the origins of the veggies, fruit, seeds and nuts you’re buying, and make food choices that reflect a new way of eating better.
STAY HYDRATED: Proper hydration is very important, and water is your best bet. Sodas and juice are loaded with sugar and can often include chemicals, dyes and flavourings. If you find that drinking plain water is hard after your body has got used to the exciting flavours of other drinks, try a few natural additives that might make water a little less boring. Slices of cucumbers and sprigs of mint often freshen water up, or add fresh or frozen berries. A simple splash of lime or lemon juice might even do the trick! Sometimes the addition of ice cubes brings water to a temperature that feels refreshing and is the only addition you need.
Get enough exercise: This doesn’t mean you have to run yourself to exhaustion or join a boot camp that makes you want to run for the hills. Lots of exercise classes can be very enjoyable and there’s something out there to suit you. If you have weak joints, there are lots of options that involve doing workouts in the pool – there is virtually no impact on your body. Look into dance classes, yoga, or Zumba; or start some martial arts training! It’s never too late to start going on a good exercise routine. This can even involve a nightly stroll just to get your heart rate up.
Avoid smoking & DRINKING: Smoking and vaping can lead to a whole host of problems and bring serious hazards to your lungs, mouth and oesophagus. Hard drinking can also lead to a whole host of issues, although a glass of wine or beer every so often won’t hurt you, moderation is key.
GET ADEQUATE SLEEP: In order to function properly, you need enough sleep. If you tend to keep late hours and then wake early, or if your sleep is fitful and interrupted, you won’t have the energy you need to maintain other priorities that lead to good health. A good routine will help, as well as keeping your room cool and dark at night, staying away from stimulants (TV, video games, sugary foods and drink, or even exercise) at least a couple of hours before bed can all help you get into a good sleep pattern. You might also want to check your mattress or pillow and make sure it’s not the culprit.
Maintaining good hygiene : will increase the odds that you keep sickness at bay as well. Wash your hands thoroughly each time you get them dirty, and especially before you prepare or sit down to a meal. Keep your fingernails trimmed and clean, as your nails present a wonderful hiding place for bacteria and germs. Shower regularly, and be sure to wash after you workout, as this will help keep acne and other skin blemishes at bay. If you don’t have access to hot running water and soap, then hand sanitizer is your best bet. Keep a larger bottle for road trips or camping trips, and tuck a travel sized bottle in your pocket for unexpected messes when you’re away from home.
Keeping your environment clean is another great way to help your immune system. Your home is where you’ll spend most of your time, and keeping your home clutter free, tossing garbage and maintaining a regular state of cleanliness will not only help reduce bacteria and germs, but also keep pests from being able to take up residence without you even being aware it’s happening. An air purifier is one option for keeping even the air you breathe a lot cleaner.
This article was written by Jon Reyes
🙂 P.S STAY HEALTHY STAY SAFE 🙂
nice article
thanks 🙂