Easy Lifestyle Choices to Build Your Immunity ...

Turns out there are many simple things you can do in your every day life to boost your immune system and protect yourself from many types of bacteria and disease that is so prominent in American life today. Here are five simple ways to make an instantly healthier you:

• Wash your hands often and for at least twenty to thirty seconds each time. A good rule of thumb is to sing 'Happy Birthday to You' twice (or just two verses) and although it sounds silly, it does work.

• Drink water. Everyone says. Just do it. Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. For more wellness benefits, add juice, non-fat milk (or milk substitute), Vitamin Water, or similarly healthful drinks; watch the ingredients, however, and avoid the faux-healthy drinks that are high in sugar and include tons of artificial flavors and preservatives.

• Avoid high fat, high sugar and processed foods. The easiest tip for achieving this while grocery shopping is the "outside aisles" rule, which is generally houses fruit and veggies, dairy, fish and meat, juice and refrigerated products. This doesn't always work but if you simply stick to whole ingredients you can't go wrong. Read labels! Make it a habit...and watch for our post on the pitfalls and solutions for eating out!

• Sleep at least six to ten hours per night, depending on your age, health and activity level. This tip helps your immune system and with symptoms of depression, along with many other health benefits we experience as individuals. It's also been said to help you look younger and who doesn't want that?!

• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, especially those containing lots of vitamin C (citrus fruits, kiwi, guava, strawberries, broccoli, spinach, goji berries & cauliflower) which increases the white blood cells and antibodies and makes it easier to fight germs. Other veggies to assist the body in fighting off toxins and free radicals are Cruciferous (cabbage, broccoli, kale, turnip, brussel sprouts, radish & watercress), all of which are good sources of beta carotene, vitamin C and Calcium.

Besides helping keep you well, these tips, when followed correctly, will help you lose weight, reduce the signs of depression and give your body an overall feeling of calm balance. For other ways to add a little peace to your life, follow this blog and watch for our meditation post.

Here's to a healthier you...one choice at a time!

"Don’t eat me. I have a wife and kids. Eat them." - Homer (Simpson)