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Give Your Body The Ammunition It Needs To Stay Healthy

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With medical researchers already making dire predictions about the potential severity of this fall’s flu outbreaks, it is definitely not too soon to give our immune systems the “jump start” needed to achieve a healthy autumn and winter. Influenza, commonly called “the flu,” is an extremely contagious viral disease that sweeps the country every year from November through April, and peaks between December and early March. This flu season could be particularly troublesome because swine flu has been added to the list of viral concerns.

A healthy immune system is your body’s best defense against invading bacteria, infectious organisms and viruses. Through a series of steps called the immune response, the immune system attacks organisms and substances that invade our systems and cause disease. The immune system is made up of a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body. Vitamin deficiencies, lack of proper rest, cigarette smoking and chronic stress can all lead to a compromised immune system.

Fortunately there are many steps you can take to keep your immune system strong and your body healthy all year long. A nutrient-rich diet is one of the most important contributors to a strong immune system. Many foods contain nutrients that increase the number and strength of the various cells which help to fight off foreign infections. Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, carotenoids, bioflavonoids, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids are all essential for a healthy immune system. Good sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, green peppers, cantaloupes and broccoli. Vitamin E can be found in whole grains and vegetable oils. The best sources for carotenoids are the red, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, cantaloupes, pumpkin, etc. and leafy green foods. Talk to your holistic health practitioner to develop a nutrition plan that best suits your personal needs.

Drinking enough water is also fundamental to good health. The body loses fluids through urine and perspiration. A regular flow of water makes it difficult for harmful bacteria to breed inside the body.

Millions of Americans boost their immune systems by adding supplements to their diet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22 percent of adults use some form of herbs, botanicals and enzymes to enhance their health and boost their immunity. Vitamin C and zinc supplements are especially helpful in strengthening the immune system. Zinc is a mineral that is needed for a healthy immune system and is often sold as an over the counter natural treatment for the common cold. Echinacea is available as a dietary supplement that can be used to prevent or decrease the duration of the common cold. Check your local health food store or herb center for immune boosting formulas.

The immune boosting steps you take today will go a long way toward protecting you and your family from colds and flu. Give your body the ammunition it needs to fight off viruses and look forward to happy and healthy fall and winter.