It’s pretty simple…
Our immune system is essential for our survival. This amazingly powerful system is specifically designed to fight off unwanted invaders and protect us from disease. A healthy and robust immune system allows us to go about our daily life safely. It protects us as we come into contact with germs and bugs from pets, other people, and our environment.
Without an optimally functioning immune system, we are susceptible to attack from bacteria, viruses, parasites, and more. It can allow infections and infectious diseases to be contracted more easily, and can result in serious health concerns.
Fortunately when armed with a bit of awareness and knowledge, along with some simple strategies, we can build up our defences to help us tackle whatever may come our way.
So what can we do to super Charge Your Immunity?
According to yogitrition, if you are stressed out, unfit, not getting enough sleep, run down and/or consuming a nutritionally poor diet, you are likely not giving your body much of a fighting chance to combat unwanted pathogens that may be floating around. It is important to give your immune system a head start by incorporating these healthy habits into your diet and lifestyle:
Reduce stress: Stress steals energy and nutrients from your health, reducing your immune system function leaving you susceptible to getting sick. Be sure to incorporate regular time-out, meditation, spending time in nature such as walking outdoors or exercising with with pets and family.
Eat fresh fruits and veggies: Aim for at least two serves of fruit and three cups of vegetables daily. Include lots of colourful fruits and veggies by filling your plate with a rainbow. This ensures that your immune system is getting an abundance of essential nutrients and antioxidants such as Vitamin C that it needs to keep you fighting infections.
Reduce inflammatory foods: Sugar, refined carbohydrates, dairy, and wheat can all be inflammatory and may suppress immune function. Want to know more about the link between your gut and your immune system? Read below!
Exercise regularly: Remaining active not only makes you feel good; it also reduces the frequency of contracting a cold by up to 46%.1
Sleep soundly: Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to restore energy and allow your immune system to regain its strength and resilience.
Regularly wash your hands – simple soap and warm water helps reduce cross-contamination with unwell people.
Take time off – don’t feel guilty about having a day off from work. Convalescing will give your body and immune system the chance to recoup its energy – getting you back to work quicker and fighting fit again. Your colleagues will also thank you for keeping your germs at home!
Is there a need for extra back up?
There are many Natural Medicines that are beneficial in boosting your immune system as well as providing the necessary tools to help you fight against infections and viruses. Look out for these immune boosters:
Zinc: This key mineral assists your immune system in functioning effectively. Optimal levels of zinc in the body have been found to inhibit the common cold and influenza viruses. Great sources of zinc include legumes, and nuts and seeds. These can include hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, cashews, tofu, lentils, quinoa, chia seed, flax seeds, black beans wholemeal bread, walnuts, red lentils, kidney beans, and chickpeas.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C supports healthy immune function by enhancing the activity of your immune defence army of white blood cells; also reducing severity and duration of symptoms. So be sure to incorporate lots of berries, kale, spinach, broccoli, cantaloupe, red, orange and yellow peppers and kiwi fruit.
Herbs: There are many herbs that can boost, modulate and improve your immune system. As these herbs can also interact with other medications, we recommend you speak to a qualified Naturopath to learn which herbs are best for you. Have any questions, ask our in house Naturopath Candace Borg.
Probiotics: These friendly bacteria live in your digestive system and enhance health, and even immunity. Probiotic strains, Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCFM), Bifidobacterium lactis (HN019) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HN001), have been scientifically proven to enhance immune responses. By providing healthy gut immunity, you are providing the best defence against inhaled and ingested pathogens.
Healthy gut – healthy immune system!
So is our gut health really that important when is comes to our immune system? Absolutely!
Did you know that approximately 70% of your immune system is located in your digestive system?
Many people are aware that certain probiotics can support digestion, but did you know there are specific probiotics that support a healthy immune system? The beneficial strains, Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL 9, Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG®) all help enhance immune system function.
A healthy immune system can be dependent on the right microbial balance in your individual gut. So speak to your health care practitioner about which probiotic combination is the most appropriate for you that will help to support your unique inner eco system.
DIY Natural hand sanitiser spray
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp vegetable glycerine or Vitamin E oil
- 3 tbs 190 proof alcohol or at least 120 proof of rubbing alcohol
- 1 tbs aloe vera gel *optional, but can prevent hands from drying out from the alcohol
- 20 drops tea tree essential oil
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
Add the glycerin and essential oils to a small glass spray bottle. Add the alcohol until the bottle is almost full. Place the cap on the bottle and shake well to combine the ingredients.
Not in the DIY mood? That’s ok! Why not grab yourself a bottle of Dindi Naturals Hand Sanitiser in either calming Lavender or refreshing Lemon Tea Tree!