10 Ways to Stay Healthy, Naturally!

by B. Chancey on April 5th, 2010 at 7:00 am

An Apple a Day

It’s not just an old wives’ tale, its true! Apples are rich in anti-oxidants, increase heart and circulatory heath, and contain soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol. The tip is to buy organic when possible, to gain rich anti-oxidants and lose the pesticides. When purchasing apples, go for Red Delicious, these contain the most antioxidants.

Scrub Up

Simple yet true, its common sense that washing your hands will help to deflect germs, but sometimes we forget, or are in a place where it is impossible. The main thing to remember is never touch your face before you wash your hands. Germs are spread into the body by open orifices such as the nose, mouth and eyes. If you see that you’re stuck in situations where a facility isn’t handy to wash up, carry hand sanitizer that can be used until you can reach the washroom.

Have a Tea Party

Tea contains L-theanine, a compound that helps the body’s immune response to infection. In fact, research shows that the production of anti-bacterial proteins was up to five times higher in the tea-drinkers, a clear indicator of a stronger immune response. Of course you don’t want to be drinking just any tea, herbal teas are the best. Stock your shelf with green tea, white tea and chamomile tea for best results, and choose honey over sugar to sweeten.

Laugh Out Loud

Did you know that laughter enhances immunity? Having a hearty laugh will reduce your stress hormones and boost protective hormones. So watch a funny movie, have some laughs with your friends or go to a comedy club tonight. Do it for your health!

Drink Responsibly

The effects of excessive alcohol consumption on the immune system have been a topic of debate. However, new research has shown that excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system because alcohol is a reducer of white blood cells; the cells that help fight germs. Red wine on the other hand, contains powerful antioxidants that may be able to enhance your immunity in small amounts. But red wine will only help if you throw over-indulgence out the window.

Time for a Pep Talk

Peppers! We all know that oranges are a rich source of vitamin C, but peppers contain even more! Red, green, yellow- are all great sources.. Although vitamin C doesn’t prevent a cold, it can shorten the duration of one., So how about adding some raw peppers to your salad or even a veggie wrap? Aim for at least two servings a day of vitamin C.

Ward off Vampires

Garlic is a great immune system booster and helps to fight bacterial, viral and fungal infections! The immunity-boosting properties of garlic are due to its sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin and sulfides. Also, garlic contains antioxidants, which stimulate the body’s immune system, particularly enhancing the macrophages and lymphocytes, which destroy cancer cells. Eating raw garlic can produce the best results, yet that can be hard to do considering its potency. Instead, try roasting it for a milder flavor. If you still want to eat it raw; keep in mind that the more you mash it, the greater its potency.

Sleepy Head

Like it or not (especially if you’re a night owl) getting enough rest can boost your immune system. Your body releases immune-enhancing compounds when you are sleeping. Trying to get sound sleep may be difficult for some. Ensure better Z’s by going to bed at the same time every night, avoiding caffeine before bedtime and turning off any distractions like the television or radio.

Stress Tests

High stress jobs, hair-raising traffic and family problems are just a few examples of high-tension living. Stress hormones can suppress the immune system and invite pesky invaders into your body. Combat stress with yoga, walking, meditation, and light exercise. A quick way to relieve stress is learning some deep breathing techniques to use throughout the day.

Say No to Joe

While the small amounts of caffeine found in green tea can boost immunity, running back and forth to the coffee pot can weaken your immune system. Too much caffeine from any source can result in a boost in the adrenal glands resulting in overproduction of cortisol which weakens the immune system. Instead of reaching for a quick pick-me-up, try including yoga into your morning routine. Certain movements in yoga like the sun salutation can boost your energy levels. Get a few videos or visit your local studio to get some energy boosting moves.

Detox Drops^™ promotes natural cleansing, detoxification and toxin elimination for improved energy levels and stamina.