“Prevention is better than cure”. An often used phrase that seems easier said that done, but it is surprisingly simple to boost our immune system so that we don´t get ill or if we do, that we recover much more quickly.

It is incorrect to think that there is nothing we can do nothing to boost our immune system and the advice we are always given, but usually ignore, is exactly what will help us do this. Healthy eating and exercise - two simple but powerful habits we should all practice that will help our bodies to fight infection.

What to Increase

• Antioxidants:
  You should try and include as many antioxidants in your diet as possible although it can be hard to get the necessary amount through diet alone. You could also consider taking an antioxidant supplement. Antioxidant foods include the berry family: strawberries, cherries, blueberries and cranberries as well as tea, spinach and brussel sprouts.

• Exercise:
  Exercising consistently about 3 or 4 times weekly will improve blood circulation allowing white blood cells to circulate more quickly and efficiently thus reaching and killing germs more quickly.

• Cleansing:
  Cleansing can take the form of drinking water or using products to cleanse the colon. Both will rid the body of toxins that make the immune system function below par.

• Beneficial herbs, minerals and vitamins
  Whether you take them as a supplement or in food form, these elements will help boost the immune system. Zinc is a good preventative to stop us getting ill and will aid recovery when you are sick. Elderberry, astragalus and garlic are three herbs that also do an excellent job of helping the immune system.

• Sleep:
  Few people get a thoroughly good nights sleep either due to stress, stimulants such as tea, coffee or alcohol or simply through not sleeping enough hours. The body produces immune boosting hormones during sleep and will not produce enough of these if we do not ensure we get a good nights rest.

What to Avoid

• Sugar:
  Just the simple act of reducing the sugar in your diet will make a significant difference to your health. Sugar hampers the functioning of the immune system by bogging down white blood cells.

• Fatty Food:
  Not only will this help boost your immune system, a diet low in fatty foods will also help maintain a healthy weight and boosts our immunity.

Good health is not as hard to achieve as you think and by making simple changes as outlined above you will notice the difference in how you feel. Eat well, rest well and exercise regularly to help keep your immune system working properly. A healthy immune system will not only help prevent illnesses, it will help you fight them more efficiently if you get them.