Wintertime is often the season that many people catch colds or the flu.  What should you do (and not do) to boost your immune system and avoid catching the cold that’s passed around at the office or at home?  Here are 4 immune system boosters and 4 killers:

IMMUNE SYSTEM BOOSTERS

1. Omega-3 fatty acids (fish and flax seed oil). Did grandma ever make you down a spoonful of cod liver oil?  Well, she knew what she was doing!  Essential fatty acids protect the body against damage from over-reactions to infection.  Put flax seed oil in a smoothie, drizzle it over salad, and take your fish oil supplements daily to boost your immunity.

2.  Garlic. Do you love garlic?  It can boost your immune system because it stimulates the multiplication of infection-fighting white cells.  So, bring on the garlic and pass the breath mints because garlic is really good for you.

3.   Ginger. Ginger has been known to help the infection fighting cells do their job better.  Shave it and toss it in hot tea or pile it on your favorite type of sushi.

4.  Antioxidants.  Most people know that Vitamin C boosts your immune system.  But there are many more vitamins and minerals containing antioxidants to help you fight off colds.  Vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, and selenium are a few of these.  Take a high quality supplement (I recommend Usana Health Sciences) and eat a HUGE amount of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, apples, red grapes, kale, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots.  Foods containing selenium include many types of fish and seafood, brown rice, egg yolks, cottage cheese, chicken (white meat), sunflower seeds, and Brazil nuts.

4 IMMUNE SYSTEM KILLERS

1. Inactivity. Of course you knew I’d be telling you to exercise.  Well, did you know that studies show regular exercise lowers your risk of infection?  So, come to boot camp!  And I’ll even give you an incentive to get going…. Valentine’s Special:  Enroll and receive half a month for free! Give me a call at 720-951-0101 or email me at priscilla@fitlivingempowered.com to schedule your first session.

2. Excess pounds. We know that excess body fat increases your risk of developing degenerative diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.  And this is because you place your body in an inflammatory state.  Well, chronic inflammation also impairs the immune system.

3. Eating high glycemic foods. Yes, I hate to tell you this but, but our favorite treats like cookies or french fries (foods high in sugar and fat) suppress your immune system cells responsible for attacking bacteria.  So, think twice about indulging in these foods often – especially if you’re getting sick a lot.

4. A stressful life. Do your best to reduce your stress.  Continual stress causes your body to constantly produce the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline, and these suppress your immune system.  So, CHILL OUT and learn to unwind and relax more.

If you’re getting sick a lot, you need to make some lifestyle changes.  Use this list as a starting point.  And this list isn’t exhaustive of course.  What other items would you recommend?  Send me a comment and share with our MissFits community.

Would you like my help?  Schedule a free session with me and I’ll get you started on a nutrition and training plan to help you turn things around.  Remember, you get half a month free!

Committed to your success,

Priscilla

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