Your immune system is your first line of defense when you’re battling a common cold, flu or other cold-weather illness. Your immune system helps you heal and stay well. To work well your immune system needs healthful foods, exercise and low stress. But, be careful because too much of an inflammatory response can lead to chronic (long term) illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. So how can you support your immune system and balance its response so you get and stay healthy?
Here are six healthy living strategies you can use to boost your immune system:
- drink plenty of fluids
- exercise regularly
- limit stress
- get plenty of sleep
- include probiotics from foods or supplements
- eat a colorful, well-balanced diet.
Water is essential for immune health
Each person varies, but aim to drink six to eight, 8-ounce glasses of water a day. That can be hard to do. Your body gets dehydrated after hours of sleep, so drink a glass of water right away when you wake up. If you struggle with drinking enough water, set reminders throughout the day or drink a glass of water before each meal. Caffeine-free hot tea (especially our Pine Needle Tea) can count as part of your daily water tally.
Exercise regularly to strengthen immunity
Exercise is essential to preventing chronic illnesses such as heart disease and high blood pressure, and to keep your weight in control. Exercise also contributes to a healthy immune system. It promotes good blood circulation, which helps your immune system do its job more efficiently.
Reduce stress for increased immune function
Daily stress can overwork your immune system and drain your ability to stay healthy. Big and little daily stressors can constantly push your immune system. That’s why it’s important to take time for self-care. Make time each day to do things to "refill your tank." Self-care varies from person to person. It can include setting aside time to read, meditate, talk a walk, do a hobby or get a massage.
Sleep - a natural immunity booster
Sleep is essential for the health of your body and brain. When you don’t get enough sleep your natural immune cells go down, and inflammation cells go up. Good sleep helps strengthen your immune system. Adults should try for at seven to eight hours of sleep a day. Children and teens need more sleep. Pine needle tea is naturally caffeine free and can contribute to a calming, nighttime routine.
Food and drink to boost your immune system
A healthful diet is important to a healthy immune system. An eating plan that focuses on plants, fiber, protein and healthful fats can help you feel better and heal faster. Protein also is essential to a body that is healing.
Some of the best foods to boost immunity contain probiotics, live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your gut health and digestive system. Probiotics can be found in fermented and cultured foods. Look on the food label for "live active cultures".
Eat colorful foods that boost your immune system
Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help keep you well. Eat a rainbow of vegetables and fruits daily to ensure you're getting a variety of nutrients. Lean proteins and complex carbohydrates are also part of a healthy diet. Reduce how much you consume of processed foods, sugar and beverages that have few nutrients such as soda and alcoholic drinks, and replace with more healthy options. Did we mention the beautiful GREEN color of our Eastern White pine needles? They are loaded with vitamin C & A, antioxidants, wild suramin and shikimic acid!
The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are advised to consult their healthcare providers with any questions or concerns they may have regarding their health or medical conditions. The website and its content creators shall not be liable for any damages resulting from the use or inability to use the information on this website.