Stress in it’s various forms can seriously tax our immune system. There are three different types of stress that our body may encounter.
There is of course emotional stress, which is inevitable at some time or another in our lives. Mechanical stress is another form, which is a direct trauma to the body such as an accident or surgical procedure for example. Those are two things in our life that we don’t always have much control over. The third type of stress however, comes from what we put into our bodies in the way of food, and we do have control over that when it concerns our everyday diet.
Did you know that catching a cold and getting the flu can depend on what you eat? A poor diet leads to a compromised immune system. How is this connected?
Our body has a store of enzymes, each with their own specific task. When we eat a poor diet such as fast food,
processed foods or large amounts of sugar, we are putting a serious burden on our digestive system and our reserve of digestive enzymes. When we deplete our store of digestive enzymes, guess where the body gets the surplus?
The IMMUNE SYSTEM! In fact, 80%– 90% of the immune system lives in the gut. A strong immune system can effectively resist most disease.
How can you boost your immune system?
1. Eat leafy greens and an assortment of fresh (preferably organic) vegetables and fruits.
2. Take a digestive enzyme with ALL meals and snacks, but particularly if you have to eat prepared foods.
3. Drink plenty of water.
4. Make sure to get adequate rest.
5. Exercise 20 minutes, two or three times a week.
6. Avoid excessive sugars and sodas.
~ Karyn Choate
