10 Ways to Boost Your Immunity

Our immune system takes a beating throughout the year with seasonal changes and stress, making us more susceptible to colds, flu and other illnesses. 10 ways to improve your immunity and stay healthy!


1. Alkalize, alkalize, alkalize Our immune system is strongest in an alkaline environment. Many bacteria and viruses love an acid environment, but cannot survive in a healthy alkaline state. If you're feeling run down exercising, drinking plenty of water and lemon juice, and adding green vegetables to your diet will boost alkalinity. 2. Power packed protein Immune cells contain tiny proteins that fight and destroy infection and disease. High quality vegetable and superfood-based protein boosts our immune system while maintaining an alkaline state. Great sources are broccoli, beans peas, and nuts and seeds soaked overnight to activate their healthful enzymes. 3. Eat your greens Vegetables provide a rich balance of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that enhance our body's immune system. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are rich in nutrients and antioxidants vital in fighting infection and disease. 4. The magic of garlic Organic garlic has amazing antimicrobial and immune boosting properties. The elements that make up its own defense system are what also boost our immunity. Note that non-organic garlic has been sprayed with pesticides, which deactivate the plant's benefits. 5. Specific nutrients Many vitamins and minerals play central roles in our immune system, especially zinc and vitamin C from food. Most fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C and red peppers are one of the best. Zinc is found in ginger and many nuts and seeds. Brazil nuts, pumpkin and watermelon seeds are great sources. Blend the flesh of a watermelon with the seeds and drink for a refreshing alkalizing, protein and zinc packed drink! 6. Drink plenty of water Water is the solvent in which all nutrients and wastes are transported around the body in our blood and lymphatics. Drinking at least 2 liters per day will help our body deliver nutrients, flush wastes and dilute mucous, helping eliminate bacteria and viruses that make us ill. 7. Work up a sweat Have you noticed when you get an infection you get a fever or the local area becomes hot? An increase in body temperature is our immune system's way to actively fight infection and disease. Sweating promotes the release of stored toxins through our skin, easing the load on our body. Exercising or using a sauna, steam bath or hamam regularly improves wellness. 8. Avoid bad habits Convenience and pre-packaged foods, caffeine, alcohol and smoking are all harmful, compromising our immune system. Cutting back on these and replacing them with whole foods, herbal teas like Echinacea and Ginseng, and fresh juices are a great way to support your body. 9. Get plenty of rest and relaxation Stress and tiredness weaken our immune system and we get ill easier when we are run down. Our body recuperates and restores itself during rest and sleep. Try to reduce your stress levels and make time for relaxation. Allow your body recover and fight off illness by getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night. 10. Cold shower burst Turning the water to cold at the end of your shower stimulates lymphatic circulation which transports immune cells around our body. An invigorating way to enhance cleansing and boost your immune system!