Our health is threatened daily by exposure to pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. Thankfully, when our immune system is strong, it protects us, and keeps us healthy. Currently, with concerns such as flu and COVID-19, it’s especially important to be proactive in strengthening our immune system. Fortunately, there are many ways to do so.
Practice good hygiene:
Frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to reduce your exposure to infectious pathogens. Wash with regular soap and water for 20 seconds.
Diet:
Consume a Mediterranean-style diet, which is heavily plant-based and nutrient-dense. Fruits and vegetables like citrus, sweet potatoes, carrots, and broccoli are rich in vitamins A and C that support a healthy immune system. Shellfish, legumes, and nuts are rich in zinc, another critical mineral for boosting immunity. Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods, and limit refined sugar, which increases inflammation and suppresses the immune system. In addition, stay hydrated. Drinking water influences our lymphatic system and the removal of toxins. Thus, it’s important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Exercise:
Exercise has been shown to support healthy immunity in numerous ways. Regular physical activity has been associated with lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, exercise has shown to counteract the aging effects of a shrinking thymus, an organ that produces T cells for our immune system. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. If you are feeling ill and your immune system is compromised, avoid strenuous exercise and stick with gentle activities, like walking or yoga.
Stress:
Stress makes us more susceptible to infections and suppresses the effectiveness of our immune system. Chronic stress also increases inflammation, which negatively impacts immunity and increases risk of chronic disease. Res-Q Stress Blocker contains adaptogenic herbs. In addition to helping your body adapt to stress, in ways like lowering elevated cortisol levels, many of these herbs have a direct benefit on the immune system. Eleutherococcous, for example, is an immunomodulatory that has shown in studies to shorten the sickness in people who took it, as well as improve overall health.
Sleep:
Optimizing sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Chronic sleep loss is associated with an increase in inflammatory markers and immunodeficiency. Studies have shown that people who don’t get quality sleep are more likely to get sick when exposed to a virus. Aim for 7-9 hours of good, quality sleep every night. If you are having trouble falling or staying asleep, try all-natural, non-habit-forming Res-Q PM supplements.
Minimize toxin exposure:
- Don’t smoke
- Drink purified water
- Choose organic produce when possible, especially if the fruit or vegetable is listed in the “Dirty Dozen”
- Use non-toxic personal care products that avoid ingredients such as phthalates, triclosan, propylene glycocol, and parabens
- Try Res-Q Land 'n' Sea Fiber (Powder)! Fiber plays a beneficial role in the body's natural detoxification processes, primarily by aiding in the removal of toxins from the digestive system.
Reduce inflammation:
All of the above tips: eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, managing stress, avoiding toxins, and exercising regularly all help to keep inflammation at bay. In addition, taking key supplements like Res-Q omega-3s and Res-Q CurcuminULTRA can provide potent anti-inflammatory benefits.
Nutrients:
- Omega-3: Omega-3s lower inflammation and enhance the function of certain immune cells.
- Vitamins and minerals: Key vitamins such as A, C, and zinc are critical for boosting immunity. These ingredients can help prevent illness and shorten the duration of a cold or infection. They can be found in Res-Q Heart360 and Res-Q RenewU.
- Resveratrol and quercetin: Resveratrol has been shown to have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Res-Q Resveratrol Rewind also contains quercetin, which also has anti-viral properties. It’s well-known for its natural anti-histamine benefits, which is especially beneficial currently, since allergens can tax the immune system.
- Probiotic: 80% of our immune system resides in our GI tract. Optimizing gut health is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Gut flora can be easily disrupted by medications, poor diet, stress, and other factors. Res-Q ProBiotic replenishes good, or beneficial flora, that can help protect against infections. Taking Res-Q ProBiotic daily is an excellent way to proactively support immunity.
- Vitamin D: Most of us are deficient in vitamin D, especially during the winter months. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased susceptibility to infection, and plays a key role in modulating both our innate and adaptive immune responses. Supplement now with Res-Q Vital D3 or an omega-3 w/ vitamin D combination such as Res-Q 1250+ to boost vitamin D levels and immunity.
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Dr. Melissa Josselson, NDDr. Josselson earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She then earned her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree (ND) from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ, a 4-year graduate-level naturopathic medical school and one of five accredited schools in the U.S. |
