14 Jan Keeping a Strong and Healthy Immune System
Did you know, keeping your immune system “strong and healthy” is a more accurate wellness goal than “boosting” it?
According to the Cleveland Clinic:
Your immune system is a large network of organs, white blood cells, proteins (antibodies) and chemicals. This system works together to protect you from foreign invaders (bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi) that cause infection, illness and disease.
For a “system” that has such a vital function as immunity and so many moving parts, you can imagine that there are a lot of ways to keep it in tip top shape. Harvard Health shares:
Your first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Following general good-health guidelines is the single best step you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system working properly. Every part of your body, including your immune system, functions better when protected from environmental assaults and bolstered by healthy-living strategies such as these:
- Don’t smoke.
- Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and cooking meats thoroughly.
- Try to minimize stress.
Let’s take a quick second to give you a virtual high five for exercising regularly and remind you of the power of plants…specifically bullet point number two about eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables. Here are a few commonly asked questions and answers about fruits and veggies. For more healthy lifestyle information to stay well, check out Harvard Health’s 2021-2022 Healthy Living Guide here.
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