Your immune system works quietly without you even noticing to protect you from infectious diseases and bacterial viruses that cause disease and suffering. The stronger your immune system the more protected you are from the colds and ‘flu bugs that are circling around us. Full blown ‘flu can wipe you out for two weeks.
Flu can strike at any time but it usually hits us at the most inconvenient time. It always pays to respect your body and if you are feeling unwell take note and help your body: Give it a hand by taking some rest and eating fruits for vitamin C. Researchers have found that you can improve your immune system by eating plenty of immune-building foods such as fruit and vegetables. Get plenty of sleep as when you sleep your body heals and re-energizes itself.
Controlling stress is also very important as we are more likely to catch viruses when we are anxious or stressed. So if you find you are going from one cold to another you want to make sure doing your best to improve your immune system.
People living in the Gulf, where fruit and vegetables often travel a long way and may lose some nutrients, are encouraged to take a daily multivitamin that provides everything that the body needs, including antioxidants.
One of the most important things that you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands, it is your first line of defense. Your hands pick up germs from other people or surfaces and washing hands prevents you from infecting yourself with the germs. Use water and soap or carry antibacterial wipes in your handbag.
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 first thing in the morning. You will feel much more energetic. A brisk walk is a great way to boost your immunity and get some natural vitamin D, which is so important to your immune system. Studies show that even a daily walk at a moderate pace has a positive effect on the immune system.
Eat a well balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables.
Make water your main drink of the day.
Take exercise daily.
Get plenty of sleep.
Control stress.
Wash your hands.
Very young children often show signs of future problems relating to obesity. Parents often soothe their falls and bruises with sweets and cookies. Even some well-meaning family doctors pass out sweets after injections. Right away children learn that food is supposed to lessen the hurts in life. Remember that children learn by copying their parents, siblings and the people around them.
The answer to improving your child’s eating habits and future health is not to put them on a diet, but rather to start offering the same healthy foods that they see you eating every day. And talk to them about being healthy. Instead of using food as a treat or reward, reward your children with a big hug! Eating together and being healthy as a family and taking exercise as a family is the best way to teach your child good habits.
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