Why is it that we have smartphones but still no cure for colds and flu? It’s because we’re dealing with smart viruses. Any one of dozens of viruses can infect you — and before you know it, you are coughing, sneezing, and sniffling. We only have immunity to those rhinoviruses that we’ve been infected with already— so our immune system needs to be able to optimally react to the various cold or flu germs that can, and will, come our way! And each year, the common flu virus is different from the previous year. Why? Because the influenza viruses are constantly morphing.
So, let’s talk about strategies to help you and your family stay as healthy as possible this winter!
- Talk to your doctor about immunizations. I encourage everyone to talk to his or her doctor about whether or not getting a flu vaccine and/or a pneumonia vaccine is a good idea—especially if you or a family member falls into those groups most at risk.
- Wash your hands frequently. This remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your family from colds and flu. Use plain old soap and water. Lather, rinse, and repeat throughout the day—especially after you’ve touched door handles or been around anyone who is ill.
- Eat a healthy diet, full of antioxidants and immune supporting nutrients. This means both avoiding the high fat, often fried, and usually unhealthy fast foods, and committing to eating at least FIVE servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day! I personally take 500 mg vitamin C daily through the cold and flu season—and double that if I am feeling run-down or have been around someone with a cold!
- Get plenty of rest. Inadequate sleep negatively impacts your immune response. If you have school-age children, make it a priority for them to get at least nine hours of sleep each night. Moms and dads, you should strive for seven to eight hours yourself!
- Try a natural approach. Scientific research has led to the discovery of a combination of plant extracts that naturally boost the body’s own production of interferon, a component of the immune system that helps fight off viruses. Other plant compounds found in elderberry and echinacea extracts can help too. Take these when you feel the first sign of something coming on, and continue taking them for about a week as needed.
You are under attack! Every day you breathe, eat, touch, and share millions of dangerous microbes that infest your surroundings. Unseen and unfelt, these substances still pose an undeniable health threat. What can you do to defend yourself and keep your immune system fit? To help you optimize nutrients otherwise deficient in your diet turn to Shaklee’s Immune Building Team:
- Nutriferon: exclusive formula that boosts your immune system safely and naturally. Shield your self with Nutriferon! Only Nutriferon, with its patented combination of four plant compounds, naturally invigorates your immune system by increasing the production of your body’s own interferon.
- Immunity Formula I: builds and maintains a healthy immune system.
- Defend & Resist Complex: Use when you feel that first tickle. This complex is a unique formulation containing ingredients that are clinically proven to stimulate the body’s natural resistance and support healthy immune function.
For more information on these immunity building supplements click here.
Wellness Thought:
Get Off the Couch:
Overcoming a Sedentary Lifestyle
Exercise doesn’t just affect the way you look on the outside; it affects the way you feel on the inside. Confused about where to begin exercising? Sit down and map out your plan of action. Take a realistic look at your schedule and see how much time you can dedicate to your exercise program. It is better to under commit and over achieve. Try to work up to exercising most days of the week for at least 30 minutes a day. You can even take a few 10 minute walking breaks throughout the day to fit in your exercise.
Here are some additional tips for success:
- Schedule an appointment with yourself to workout.
- Pick a time you are least likely to cancel on yourself.
- Morning workouts will jump-start your metabolism and fuel you with more energy for the entire day.
- Take your workout program slowly in the beginning. Don’t over stress your body.
- Pace yourself! Trying to do too much too fast can cause burnout.
- Mix up your workouts by cross-training. It will keep your body from getting overly fatigued.
Here are a few common obstacles to sticking with a regular exercise routine and some ways to beat the odds:
- I feel self-conscious when I exercise.
- Do your activity in your own home. For example, use exercise videos, household chores, or personal fitness equipment. Choose a group of friends with whom you feel comfortable and form a walking group.
- I’m worried about my health or getting injured.
- Always consult with your physician before starting a new exercise program. Sign up for a gym or exercise class with qualified staff in the event that any health problems arise. Start slowly with light activity to decrease your risk of injury.
- I just don’t like exercise!
- Running and lifting weights are not the only ways to exercise. Turn on the radio and dance; do yard work to enjoy the beautiful outdoors; or play in the park with your kids, grandkids, or dogs.
- I can’t stay motivated.
- Adding variety to your routine and developing a support system of friends can keep you going. Set realistic, reachable goals, track your progress, and celebrate your success.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email or call me. Until next time have a wonderful, healthy day! Let me be your GPS to Optimal Wellness... Naturally! Your body will thank you tomorrow for the good things you do for it today.
Wishing you health and wellness from the inside out,
Lisa
LQ WELLNESS
Professional Wellness Coach
973-383-0955
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“You will find that living a life in harmony with nature is like playing a musical instrument in a symphony orchestra. One sour note may cause a great deal of discomfort, not only to yourself, but to others, who also depend on an established harmony.”
~ Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee ~
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