IMMUNE SYSTEM BOOSTERS

Healthy ways to strengthen your immune system

Your first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Following general good-health guidelines is the single best step you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every part of your body, including your immune system, functions better when protected from environmental assaults and bolstered by healthy-living strategies such as these:

• Don't smoke

• Eat a healthy diet

• Exercise regularly (Outdoors when possible)

• Maintain a healthy weight

• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation

• Get adequate sleep

• Take steps to avoid infections, such as washing your hands frequently and cooking meats thoroughly

• Keep stress under control

• Keep symptoms of chronic conditions under control

Herbs and Supplements

Although scientists have yet to determine whether vitamin C can enhance immunity, there's some evidence that this antioxidant can reduce cold incidence.

Herbs such as andrographis, AHCC, astragalus, echinacea, and eldelberry, are among those people use in the belief they may help reduce the duration and severity of sickness if taken as soon as cold or flu symptoms arise. However, scientific support for claims that any vitamin, herb, or supplement can prevent or treat colds and other infectious illnesses is limited.

NOTE: If you're considering the use of any remedy, make sure to consult your physician first. Self-treating any condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.