An efficient and balanced immune system is the key to maintaining good health. It protects us from diseases, allergies and slows down the aging process. A strong immune system depends upon:

Energy- regular exercise and massage

Attitude- a positive attitude, good mental health

Nutrition- feeding your body a healthy, well balanced diet

Our immune system is made up of a team of organs working together mainly made up of the skin, bloodstream, digestive and lymphatic systems.

Skin- helps our immune system by acting as a huge detox organ eliminating toxins and impurities from our bodies.

Blood and Circulatory System- aids immunity by cycling out wastes from the blood into the digestion and lymphatic systems for proper elimination.

Digestive System- is a complex system that involves our stomach, large and small intestine, gallbladder, pancreas and liver. Inside the lining of our intestines contains beneficial bacteria that helps us digest waste and boosts our immunity. Adding a probiotic supplement or a yogurt to your diet keeps up the good flora population.

Lymphatic System- a network made up of lymph nodes and vessels, the spleen and thymus gland that produce lymphocytes which destroy and eliminate invaders.

What contributes to sickness? Unhealthy lifestyles, poor health habits and toxic environmental conditions can compromise and weaken our immune system leaving us susceptible to infection. Immune System Enemies are:

• Poor Nutrition-low vitamins A & C levels in the body

• Stressful Lifestyles

• Lack of Sleep

• Smoking

• Excess Alcohol, Caffeine, Drugs, Sugar, Food Additives, Pesticides & Pollutions.

The signs of low or imbalanced immunity are apparent in those that are excessive or frequently sick. Chronic illness can cause allergies, food intolerances, auto immunity, digestive problems, fatigue, soreness and poor skin. We can boost our immunity by adding healthy foods, herbs and teas to our diet and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.

Eating a Healthy Diet. Eat foods high in vitamins A, B complex, C and E; high in Zinc, Calcium and Selenium, green leafy veggies and berries. You don’t have to rely solely on vitamin supplements. Herbs are food and contain many vitamins and minerals. Acerola & Rose Hips are high in vitamin C. Barley & Wheatgrass powders are a great protein source packed with nutrients and can be added into smoothies. Green Tea, Green Rooibos, Hemp Seeds are power packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

Good personal hygiene habits. They are very important in preventing and spreading disease. Wash your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom, handling raw meat or animals/pets. Keep your Environment Clean. Keep living areas cleaned regularly, keep dust levels down. Clean kitchen and bathrooms regularly. Keep both lids of the toilet down when not in use. Store tooth brushes in the medicine cabinet or in a drawer. Keep work place spaces, desks, and your telephone, cleaned regularly-especially if others share it. Viruses and parasites can live for several hours on non-living objects.

Healthy Outlook. Have a Positive outlook on life. Laugh, and laugh a lot! Spend good times with friends and loved ones.

Prevention. Enjoy life in moderation. Practicing preventative health habits can be free. In most cases, herbal remedies and teas tend to be less expensive and better for you than over the counter pharmaceuticals.

We can't always prevent every cold, flu or other illness, but we can do our part as best we can. It's all about lifestyles and habits. If you are unsure were to start, I do provide online consultations, classes and ebooks that may be of assistance. Take my next class- Jan. 26th Immunity Boosters at Pierce or Highline Colleges. see www.HerbalElements.net/classes

This article is for educational purposes only, not intended for self-diagnosis. Remember to ask your doctor for advice whenever needed, especially is you are taking pharmaceutical medications as herbs can interact with certain drugs.

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