3 Simple Steps to Boost Your Immune System

Have you noticed that some people come down with every cold and catch every flu bug, while other people never seem to get sick? The difference may be in the immune system -- some people just seem to be able to fight off illnesses, while some of us can't. If your immune system doesn't seem to be up to the job, these three tips might give your body a fighting chance against the next round of germs.

1. Eat a healthier diet. I know, I know - you've heard this before. But it really does matter. The cells in your body, including the white blood cells that do most of the disease-fighting work, need the micro-nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that you get when you eat a nutrient-rich diet. Unfortunately, most of us eat a calorie-rich diet instead.

You find the greatest concentrations of micro-nutrients in veggies, fruit, nuts, and several kinds of medicinal mushrooms. Your body also needs protein, but most of us naturally get plenty of protein in the standard American diet. It's the veggies that we don't seem to get enough of.

If you'd like to get a real power-boost for your immune system, consider adding some of the medicinal mushrooms to your diet. The common button mushrooms you find in the local supermarket don't qualify, unfortunately. The ones to look for are shiitake, maitake and reishi mushrooms, which contain some complex carbohydrates called beta-glucans that have been shown to greatly enhance the immune system, reduce allergies, and they may even help the body fight cancer.

If your local store doesn't carry these mushrooms, you can usually find them dried in an Asian food store, or you can order dried mushrooms online. If you do find fresh ones locally, make sure they're really fresh - they shouldn't be starting to show any signs of deterioration or mold.

2. Get more exercise, and do your exercising outside. Yes, here again I'm offering the same advice you've heard before, but that doesn't make it any less important. Studies have shown that people who work their muscles every day for at least 45 minutes tend to fight off illnesses much easier than more sedentary counterparts.

If you decide to take your dog for a nice ling walk instead of sweating out in the gym, you'll accomplish two things -- you'll actually enjoy yourself, and you'll soak up some sunlight, which will help your body build vitamin D. As many as one-third of Americans don't get enough vitamin D, which is an important weapon in your fight against illnesses such as asthma, some auto-immune illnesses, and possible even cancer.

3. Get a pet. Studies have shown that the people who have the closest ties to friends and family tend to be healthiest. These relationships somehow help the immune system, although scientists don't yet know why. Some people, however, prefer their own company, while others find themselves alone for reasons that seem to be out of their control. For these people, a pet is a perfect answer.

Studies have shown that a furry or feathered friend can provide many of the health benefits that people receive from human friends and family. Taking care of an animal and creating a bond reduces the levels of stress hormones, and that helps the immune system work better.

So put all together -- take your dog (or cat?) for a walk in the sunshine, and then come home to a nice, healthy meal. You'll feel better, and your immune system may be stronger, too.

Jonni has been writing online for over 8 years. She often writes about pets, gardening, and health, but she has other interests as well. You can see her latest website at CarBatteryBoosters.com where she helps you choose a portable car battery booster to help you out the next time your battery goes dead.