02/07/2019
Protection Against Viruses
A group of viruses called 'entovirus' has been the focus of attention lately, and for good reason! It is a serious virus and many children in the United states have been hospitalized a form of it. Many health professionals cite strict hygienic practices, including thorough hand-washing and avoiding contaminated surfaces, are often cited as the best ways to prevent spread of these infections. Those are tried and true methods! However, employing them can be very difficult when everyday life includes work, school, shopping and a wide assortment of social activities. It's important to remember: you don't get sick just because you've been exposed to germs. That's a good thing, because it's nearly impossible to avoid all germs! New research published in the PLOS journal found that when 17 healthy people were exposed to a flu virus, only half of them got sick. Your immune system’s response to the flu virus is also an important factor in whether or not you get sick and the depth of that illness! So get those immune systems into peak shape for winter and protect yourself and your loved ones with these four rules.- Add Antioxidant-Rich Foods to Your Menus: A diet rich diet in antioxidants prevent free radical damage and optimizes the immune system. Add a broad range of fruits and vegetables to the menu to create the greatest benefits for the immune health. Remember, the three major antioxidant vitamins are beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which are found in colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those with purple, blue, red, orange, and yellow hues.
- Get Enough Vitamin D: Seventy percent of Americans are deficient in vitamin D, which helps activate the immune system! New research shows that when the body is exposed to a pathogen, T cells 'search' for vitamin D, if the T cells do not find enough vitamin D, they cannot activate the immune system! Get vitamin D from safe exposure to the sun, salmon, tuna and fortified foods.
- Get Fit: Regular physical activity enhances antibody and natural T cell response. Multiple studies have shown that people who exercise are half as likely to catch a cold as those who do not!
- Sleep: Sleep is an important factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. Much research has indicated that health risks rise significantly when individuals sleep less than seven hours a night. Part of this is due to the reduced levels of melatonin, a hormone necessary for a healthy immune system which is produced while we sleep. A lack of sleep also reduces T cells and impacts levels of proteins called cytokines, which act as mediators between cells.
