Wednesday, July 06, 2011

How to improve your immune system


Manage  Your Stress
Some stress can be a good thing. It's your body's way of preparing for a challenge, such as giving a presentation. But a steady stream of stress can be bad for your health. Studies show it can even weaken your immune system -- your body's system for fighting off disease and illness. Reduce your stress by avoiding whatever stressors you can. Take the time to relax and do things you enjoy.

Enjoy  Sex, as it is good for you
It turns out that sex , it's good for you, too. Studies have shown that a good sex life can be a boost to health.  The researchers found that those who had frequent sex were in better overall health than those who had sex less often.

Pets help to improve your immune system
There's a reason dogs are called "man's best friend." Dogs and other pets can offer us companionship, exercise, and even good health. Studies have found that having a pet can help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve heart health. One study showed that having a dog can help improve immune system development and may reduce the risks of allergies in children.


Strong Social Network & good friends go a long way
We all know friends are important, but strong social ties can also have a big effect on your health. A recent study found that people with strong relationships were 50% more likely to survive than those with poor social ties. To broaden your social network, try volunteering, taking a class, or joining a group that interests you. And be sure to nurture the bonds you already have.


Positive Attitude Boosts your Immune system
Positive thoughts can give your immune system a healthy boost. One study of law students found that when they were feeling more optimistic, their immune system was stronger. To increase your optimism, take time to savor the things you enjoy, look for the silver lining in difficult situations, and try not to dwell on negative thoughts.

Laughter boosts the immune system
While there's some evidence that laughter may help boost our immune system, overall research results have been mixed. A group of researchers  found that people who laughed out loud at funny videos had higher immune function after watching the video. But more studies are needed to prove whether laughter actually helps prevent or minimize illness.

Eat Your Antioxidants
Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help you get a healthy dose of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from free radicals, molecules that can damage cells. To get a wide range of antioxidants, choose fruits and vegetables of different colors, such as oranges, green peppers, broccoli, kiwi, strawberries, carrots, watermelon, papaya, leafy greens, and cantaloupe.

Daily dose of Vitamins are building blocks for healthy immune system
If you have a feeling your diet is lacking, consider taking a multivitamin. A daily multivitamin will help ensure that your body is getting all of the building blocks for a healthy immune system. Some nutrients that may be especially important for immune system health include selenium, vitamins A, C, D, and E, zinc, and magnesium.

Avoid Empty Calories
Processed foods such as fast foods, snack foods, candy, and soda don't provide much in the way of vitamins, fiber, or other nutrients,but often contain other additives and chemicals that may not be good for your body.  These foods  when consumed deplete your body of essential nutrients.

Herbs and Supplements, discuss with your doctor
Many people take herbs or supplements to improve their overall health. Some supplements have been shown to affect the immune system. But more well-designed studies are needed to learn their beneficial effects on humans. These include garlic, ginseng, milk thistle, astragalus, and probiotics such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about which supplements may be good for you.

Exercises help to strengthen your immune system
 Getting regular exercise can also reduce stress and help lower your risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. You get the most benefit when you exercise at a moderate level a few times a week is helpful, including bicycling, walking, yoga, swimming, or playing golf.

A Good Night's Sleep helps to fight off illness
Without enough sleep, your immune system may not have the resources it needs to fight off illness. Most adults need about seven to nine hours of sleep each night. You can help yourself to a more restful sleep by keeping a regular schedule, getting exercise, avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, relaxing before bedtime, and keeping your bedroom at a comfortable temperature.

Limit Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can weaken your immune system and cause you to get sick more often. To minimize risk, men should have no more than two drinks per day. Women should not have more than one drink per day.

Kick the Nicotine Habit
Smoking weakens your immune system. Even if you're just an occasional smoker, you're still at risk. Even low levels of exposure to tobacco can cause health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and asthma. If you need help quitting, talk with your doctor.

Wash Your Hands
One of the easiest ways to help your immune system fight illness is to wash your hands regularly. Be sure to use soap and clean, running water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. If you don't have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.

For more info kindly see-
http://www.webmd.com/diet/

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