With everyone returning from leave and children returning to school, this is a time of year when many viruses can spread from person to person and knock you out for days.
Annoying coughs, colds and influenza can easily be passed from one person to another especially in schools and as the weather starts to cool.
So now is a good time to boost your immunity so that if you are unfortunate enough to find that you have caught a virus, you can shake it off quickly.
Many people have healthy immune systems after holidays and leave as they have had plenty of rest and are relaxed, but it is important to keep the immune system strong so that if you are unlucky enough to catch ‘flu or a virus you can shake it off quickly because you are healthy.
Here’s how to boost your immune system:
Exercise is the most efficient way to shed damaging stress hormones, and so, boost your immune system.
Sleep well: make sure you get your sleep because cells regenerate during sleep as the body and mind heal themselves. A sleep deficit can lead to a compromised immune system, putting you at risk for ‘flu and many other illnesses. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
Wash your hands regularly: don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly. Don’t rub your eyes after you have shaken hands or touched germ-laden surfaces. Notify your doctor at the first signs of flu symptoms.
Relax: there is a wide range of negative effects that stress can have on your health. One of the most harmful is compromising your immune system and putting you at greater risk for respiratory illnesses and other diseases. The way to best manage your daily stress is to take time to relax and take exercise. Try deep breathing in stressful situations or when you feel anxious. Breathe in for a count of four and out for a count of six: long exhalations naturally promote relaxation
Fight off the seasonal cold and ‘flu viruses with healthy eating
Time once again, to embrace the words of Hippocrates — “Let food be your medicine, and medicine your food”.
Eat yogurt. I love traditional yogurt as it can improve your digestive health as well as your overall health. According to the World Health Organization, eating this “good” bacterium can boost your immune system, provide extra calcium and lead to a longer, healthier life.
Garlic. Incredibly versatile and packed with flavour, garlic is also a super-nutrition star. Long known for its natural antibiotic properties, garlic is thought to help keep colds and minor ailments at bay.
Watercress. Stock up on watercress — a favorite of mine. Watercress is literally brimming with essential vitamins and minerals that maintain the body’s overall health.
If you feel run down, get some Echinacea from the pharmacy or health food shop, as it protects against colds and influenza, as well as helping to heal wounds.
Try to get your five portions of fruit and vegetables, as citrus fruits in particular are great sources of antioxidants, which help combat toxins and boost your immune system.
And don’t forget free fresh air! Your body loves clean air in your lungs to send oxygen all through your body. So open the house windows and let some fresh air in. Take a daily walk in the park, or along the beach. A brisk walk is a great way to boost your immunity.
Ask Alva
My doctor has told me I must get more active and is treating my weight problems.
My problem is that I really enjoy watching television when I get home from work. And the evening can easily slip by watching my favorite programs. Can you please advise me? — Hussain
Instead of sitting on the couch, do some sit-ups, push-ups, jumping jacks, or any other exercise. Some people place a stationary bike or other exercise equipment in front of the television. Once you get into the routine, you’ll be exercising regularly!
Or stop at the gym or for a walk on the way home from work and you will arrive home feeling so much more relaxed. It is very difficult to get up and go out to the gym once you arrive home. Send for a free copy of my Healthy Eating Guide to [email protected].— Alva
