Since last March, the world has been in an uproar over the big “C” virus (I will refrain from using its name to avoid cens0rship – and yes, that’s why I just misspelled that word). The advice the doctors on TV have doled out has constantly changed and left people wondering what exactly they should do to avoid getting sick. They hide treatments they don’t want you to know about and delete videos, articles, and posts that explain inexpensive or natural treatments (even the #naturalimmunity is being cens0red all over social media).
And they promote the treatments that they want you to see and that will make them money. The old saying “follow the money” definitely holds true here.
That’s why it’s so important to do your own research! You are your own best health advocate!
I want to share some simple and effective ways to protect your immune system no matter what new ‘v’irus is going around. These strategies can give you and your family the peace of mind and confidence you need to stay worry-free and healthy (or quickly bounce back if you do happen to get sick).
1. Eat Clean
In order to have a healthy immune system, you have to give your body the proper fuel. If you’re living off fast food, highly processed foods full of sugars, hydrogenated fats, and artificial ingredients, it’s going to be a lot harder for your immune system to function properly. Some people put premium gas in their cars while fueling their own bodies with junk!
One of the best things you can do to instantly improve your diet is to eat the rainbow. Vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest foods on the planet, so aim to increase the amount that you eat each day.
If you don’t know where to begin, start by adding a green smoothie to your diet each day!
2. Get Moving
We were made to move! Having a healthy diet is only one part of overall health. Exercise is just as important. So find something you love to do, and commit to exercising at least 5 days a week, 30 minutes a day. Studies show that regular exercise helps reduce stress, increases circulation, creates stable blood sugar levels, and reduces inflammation – all of which are essential to maintaining a healthy immune system.
If you have no idea where to begin, my Busy Woman’s Guide to Healthy Happy Living has a 10-Day Jumpstart Workout plan and calendar so you know exactly what workout to do and when!
3. Absorb some Sunshine or Take Vitamin D3
Getting outside in the fresh air in the warmth of the sun is a wonderful way to naturally boost your immune system. The sun’s rays provide a natural source of Vitamin D, which is an essential nutrient for healthy immune systems. All it takes is 15 minutes of sunshine to reap the immune-boosting benefits!
If you can’t get out in the sun, try supplementing with 1000-2000 IU of natural Vitamin D3.
4. Regularly Detox
Our immune systems are constantly inundated with toxins from the food we eat and the environment in which we live. That’s why it is so important to regularly detox our bodies. If you even just practiced the first 3 tips from this post, you’ll be well on your way to detoxing your body! Try incorporating weekly detox baths, detox teas, dry skin brushing, and detox supplements to boost your body’s detoxing capabilities even more!
5. Protect Your Gut
It’s said that up to 80% of our immune system is located in our guts! That is why digestive health is so important. To ensure a healthy digestive system, it’s important to eat plenty of fiber, have regular bowel movements (at least one a day), restore healthy bacteria with probiotics, and follow step #1! If you struggle with digestive issues, I highly recommend eliminating gluten and dairy from your diet, both of which can be highly inflammatory. If you continue to have digestive issues, you should consider working with a qualified holistic practitioner who can help you get to the root of your problems.
6. Stock Your Natural Medicine Cabinet
Pharmaceuticals and prescription drugs can destroy digestive health, thereby greatly weakening your immune system. I never recommend anyone get off prescription medications without consulting their primary healthcare provider. But hopefully you have one whose goal it is to help you not be dependent on medications. It’s important to work with someone who will share your goals and beliefs about overall health!
For me personally, I want to use natural products that are made with ingredients that God created! Natural is best! But no matter where you stand on this issue, you can still create a natural medicine cabinet that is stocked with natural remedies! Here are just a few of my favorite things to keep on hand for all sorts of ailments and health issues:
- Homeopathic remedies
- Vitamins/Minerals
- Herbal Tinctures and Capsules
- Essential Oils
- Plant-based Ointments and Creams
When you opt for natural products, it is much easier on your liver and digestive system. Rather than having side effects, natural products like these actually have side benefits, one of which is a healthier immune system!
7. Learn to De-Stress
Did you know that stress can seriously lower your immunity? That means when you are perpetually tired and stressed out by all of life’s demands, you are more susceptible to sickness! Stress raises our cortisol levels and can create a constant output of adrenaline. If we don’t learn to calm down and reduce our stress, those levels will remain high, making it that much harder for our body’s systems to function properly. We are literally worrying ourselves sick! But by slowing down and reducing stress, we help our bodies stay in healthy homeostasis. Here are a few of my favorite ways to reduce stress!
8. Get Your Zzzz’s
Getting adequate amounts of sleep every night is so important for a healthy immune system. Sleep is when our body repairs itself, so if you’re not sleeping, you’re not repairing! Our bodies need anywhere from 7 to 9 hours (more for children!) of sleep each night to feel rested and restored. Find what amount works best for you and stick to a regular sleep schedule. You will do your immune system a huge favor by making sure to get plenty of restorative sleep. Have trouble sleeping? Check out my 10 Tips for Better Sleep!
