10 natural ways to boost your immune system

10 natural ways to boost your immune system

1. Go ahead and laugh.  Laughter lowers the production of stress hormones and increases the release of endorphins, the bodies natural "feel-good" chemicals. This combination helps increase immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies.       2. Meditate.  Daily meditation is excellent for your immune system.  Meditation with a mindful approach to daily living will reduce your stress for sure! 3. Eat Healthy fruits and vegetables especially those that are high in Vitamins A, C, E, B-6, zinc and folic acid, which are all beneficial in creating a healthy immune system.    4. Drink H2O. Drinking plenty of water.  It  helps to carry  oxygen to all the cells of your body, which keeps your body functioning well and your immune system is strongest when all your cells are in tip top shape. Water also flushes toxins out of your body.   5. Wash your insides with probiotics. Probiotics, live organisms, are often referred as the "good guys" because as our intestines are stripped of all the "bad" stuff through frequent antibiotic use, it also kills the "good guys." Often the "good guys" can be built back up with probiotic supplements or copious amounts of yogurt. 6. Exercise regularly.   Exercise is linked to a positive immune system response and a temporary boost to the cells that attack bacteria. Long-term, consistent exercise leads to overall better immune system health.  7. Sleep enough. The immune system needs time to work while you are sleeping. Lack of sleep (fewer than seven hours a night) stresses the body and a stressed body can't function properly. 8. Don't skimp on the Garlic.  Garlic contains three powerful compounds (allicin, ajoene and thiosulfinates) that help prevent and fight infections in the body. Studies show that those who ingest large quantities of garlic when they start to get sick will reduce the longevity of the cold. 9. Drink green tea. Several studies have shown that green tea has antiviral properties. It also is said to help suppress appetite which leads to weight-loss control.   10. Have Sex. Having sex once or twice a week is connected to higher levels of the antibody immunoglobulin A, or IgA, which helps protect you from infections and illnesses.