Work Out to Strengthen Your Immune System

Modern life can get in the way of our fitness goals, but even a little bit of exercise can go a long way in boosting your immune system. Did you know that engaging in just 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise daily can actually improve your body’s immune response?

An often overlooked but important part of maintaining a healthy immune system, exercise helps flush out bacteria from your lungs and airways, improves circulation, causes mild fluctuations in body temperature to fight infection, and releases stress-reducing endorphins. In fact, even a daily brisk walk can cut your number of sick days by more than half.

Give your workouts a boost by adding some natural health support. Here are some suggestions from Michelle W. Book, a holistic nutritionist for the Canadian Health Food Association:

Krill oil: When coupled with exercise, krill oil supplementation can help increase white blood cell production, which helps sustain immune function.

Protein: Branched-chain amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They help improve muscle recovery after exercise and immune cell growth and development.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D supplementation in athletes has been shown to limit infections. If you’re engaging in winter sports or plan to hit the gym hard, consider adding this vitamin for immune health and overall well-being.

Echinacea: This herbal supplement has been shown to improve the immune function of high-intensity and endurance athletes, such as marathoners and triathletes. It can also decrease the number of chest colds you may experience.

Learn more about how you can naturally boost your immune system and find a local CHFA Member health food store online at chfa.ca.

SOURCE: www.newscanada.com