Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally
Staying healthy throughout the cold and flu season can be a challenge. One way to increase your odds of avoiding the usual winter bugs is by fortifying your immune system. Let’s look at four of the best ways you can give your immune system a boost.
1. Regular Spa Use
One of the easiest, not to mention the most relaxing ways to build up your body’s defences against colds and viruses is with daily hot tub use.
That’s right, spending 20-30 minutes soaking in your spa on a daily basis can increase your immunity. The secret is the heat of the water which accelerates blood flow in the body while also increasing the production of white blood cells. Carried by the bloodstream throughout the body, these cells help in the fight against infection and disease.
The other advantage of soaking in the heated water is that it can help rid your body of toxins. The rise in your body’s temperature causes blood and lymph fluid to circulate more quickly. This system works to remove impurities through perspiration — something you do a lot of in your hot tub. As the toxins are brought to your skin’s surface, they’re washed away by the water of your spa.
2. Eating the Right Foods
If you aren’t already eating them, there are 15 superfoods that you should be incorporating into your diet. High in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, when consumed on a regular basis, experts say they can help to keep your immune system strong and healthy.
To get a natural dose of cold-fighting vitamin C, look no further than red bell peppers and citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruit.
Also loaded with vitamin C, not to mention vitamins A and E as well as antioxidants, beta carotene and fiber, are broccoli and spinach. One serving of each veggie daily gives your immune system a huge boost. Other superfoods to add to your diet are garlic, ginger, yogurt, almonds, sunflower seeds, turmeric, green tea, papaya, kiwi, poultry and shellfish.
3. Regular Exercise
Making physical activity a part of your daily routine has many health benefits, including a nice boost for your immune system. That’s because regular exercise plays a role in good circulation which, in turn, helps germ-fighting white blood cells to be more productive.
Even if you’re not a big fan of traditional exercise, find something you enjoy doing that will elevate your heart rate. Whether you choose walking, swimming, tennis or basketball, be sure to get in four 30-minute sessions.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking in any amount and excessive alcohol consumption are not only bad for your health, they take a huge toll on your immune system too.
The chemicals in cigarette smoke increase the risk for a number of immune and autoimmune disorders and can even impede the effectiveness of specific treatments.
Women who consume more than one drink a day and men who consume more than two could be severely impairing their immune system. Overconsumption not only lowers the body’s ability to fight infection, but it can also kill healthy gut bacteria and weaken your organs.
Pool Brite
If you want to fortify your immune system with daily hydrotherapy, come visit us at Pool Brite. We’re the provider of the best hot tubs in Western New York. Visit our Amherst showroom to view the selection of 4-person hot tubs in stock. If you’d like to learn more about hot tub prices, one of our experts will be happy to assist you. You can also send us a message for more information or for advice on which spa will work best for you.