Simple Ways to Boost Immunity This School Year
I know. I know. It’s too soon to talk about back to school. You are still in the pool floating away the days or is that just us?
But if you read the news at all, you know that important decisions are already being made about the school year. Summer break is quickly ticking away. No matter what happens this school year, a strong immune system is going to be more important than ever.
Have you noticed that all school supply lists include tissues and hand sanitizer? That is because teachers know, once the bell rings, you can count on the stuffy noses and sneezing to be right on time. Even when it seems the whole school is crawling with crud, there are things you can do at home to boost the immune system.
Several studies indicate that probiotics and supplements improve the immune system. About 90 percent of the body’s immune system calls the gut “home.” By taking probiotics, you are arming your immune system to fight off invading viruses and bacteria.
Boosting your immune system may be as easy as a spoon of elderberry syrup. Because elderberries are so high in flavonoids (immunity-boosting compounds), many use this syrup as a daily preventative during cold and flu season.
The foods you consume can play a big role in strengthening your immune system. A good way to do this is by eating plenty of colorful immune boosting foods like oranges, spinach, red bell pepper, and broccoli.
New research suggests that vitamin D (or specifically, the lack of vitamin D) plays a key role in immunity. Many individuals living in colder climates were found to be deficient in vitamin D, but when supplemented, those individuals suffered half as many colds. The days have already started to get shorter and we will have less time to play outside. The takeaway: Either sneak out for some sunshine or make sure your diet includes an appropriate amount of vitamin D.
Look into high quality pure essential oils. If there is one thing in my natural medicine cabinet that I would not want to be without, it is essential oils. What are essential oils, anyway? In short, they come from the many different parts of plants (seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers…). They have been used for generations in food preparation and beauty treatments in addition to health and wellness.
Did you know that getting your child regular chiropractic adjustments can help prevent sickness? Our immune system is directly connected to the spine. Preventing inflammation and ensuring the nervous system does not have any added stress is important for a healthy immune system. Studies show increased white blood cells in just 15 minutes after an adjustment.
Lack of sleep is correlated with higher levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. Stress is known to suppress the immune system. Studies have shown that less than 5 hours of sleep negatively affects the immune system, and that 7 to 9 hours of sleep is ideal for adults, and 9 to 11 hours of sleep is ideal for school-age children. Start by turning off electronics and dimming the lights. Your immune system rebuilds, and your body heals while you sleep.
The best way to kick off a new school year is with a strong immune system. So, be proactive with your health. As the old saying goes, prevention is worth a pound of cure!