Having a healthy immune system is more important than ever these days. Eating clean and healthy, exercising often and getting regular chiropractic adjustments all help, but there’s additional actions you can take. Give your immune system a boost by avoiding these sometimes surprising immune system compromisers:
Dehydration
Without proper hydration, our bodies have a tough time flushing away damaging toxins. The most accurate sign you’re getting all the water you need is urine that is clear and light yellow in color every time you go—even first thing in the morning. If it’s not clear, increase the amount of water you drink until you achieve regular, clear/light yellow urine.
Inadequate Sleep
When we sleep, your body has time to heal and rebuild and recharge, preparing your body and your immune system for the next day. A 2009 Carnegie Mellon study showed the chance of catching a cold may as much as triple for people who get less than seven hours of sleep at night. Avoid late nights and all-nighters as much as possible to help keep your immune system operating the best it can for you.
Loneliness
Studies have discovered that anxiety over chronic relationships has the same effect as chronic stress and suppresses your immune system from functioning at the highest level. If you’re feeling alone, find ways to bring more social activity into your life. Join a networking group or volunteer. You’ll be surprised at the benefits.
Processed Foods
It’s no secret processed foods are non-beneficial for us. Filled of additives, pesticides and preservatives, these compounds weaken the body’s ability to fend off illness. Take a serious look at the contents of your pantry and fridge. Get rid of or donate processed items and replace with fruits, veggies and lean proteins.
Sugar
A study showed that eating 100 grams of sugar—roughly the amount in a regular soft drink or sweetened yogurt—significantly reduced the immune system’s ability to kill bacteria for up to five hours. Start reading labels and pay close attention to everywhere sugar lurks, even breads, dressings and condiments, and find ways to reduce your intake.