If this year has taught us anything, it's how important it is to BE PROACTIVE and take charge of your own HEALTH and HAPPINESS as much as possible.
We've heard a lot about preventing the spread of illnesses, but one thing we haven’t heard much about is strengthening your body’s natural defenses against illness.
Here's some science-backed information that you can take action on, starting today!
You already know that a healthy, balanced diet of whole foods (not processed) that are low in sugar is good for you. And that keeping your routine steady – with enough sleep (7-8 hours a night) and not too much stress – is also good for your immune system.
Moving your body also plays a major role – and researchers are still figuring out all the reasons how and why it matters so much! Here are just a few...
Exercise can keep your body’s lymphatic system moving. This system is a huge part of your immune system, keeping all your disease-fighting white blood cells and antibodies flowing through your body, and helping to get rid of waste.
Being physically active can flush invading bacteria out of your respiratory system, cutting your risk of getting sick.
The slight increase in body temperature caused by vigorous exercise might stop bacteria from growing, helping your body fight infection.
Acute exercise (defined as moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise that lasts less than an hour) is an important immune system booster, especially if you work out on a near-daily basis. This is like a brisk walk, jog, riding a bike, workout class, or quick weights session.
Don't over do it! Too much exercise (like an athlete prepping for a major event) OR if you workout hard while under a lot of other stress (not eating enough, traveling, too little sleep, etc.) can actually harm your immune system because it can over stress your system
Do some kind of physical activity most days of the week.
THE TAKEAWAY: Do some kind of physical activity most days of the week. But we are all different, so where YOU START looks different than where your friend, partner, or even where you would have started 5, 10, 15 years ago!
Finally, my goal is to encourage people of all abilities to improve their well-being through exercise and healthy eating. If you're a mom or know a mom who wants to embrace a healthier lifestyle with some added accountability, check out SpireFit's Mommy and Me classes. First class is FREE!
