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BY VICKY DeROSA

COMMENTARY

Since so many of us seem to suffer with colds and flu, I have decided to dedicate today and the next few days on how to stay well. Today will simply be tips and advice on how to boost your immune system. The next several days I will commit to sharing recipes with you that are sure to boost the immune systems of you and your family.

Some of the most important ways to keep your immune system strong:

• Sleep, sleep and more sleep. Your mothers told you, your physicians told you and now I am telling you; you cannot fight off colds and flu unless you are rested.

• Ensure that you are getting all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that your body requires. If you opt to take supplements please be careful to read the ingredients on the bottle.

• Are you eating enough garlic? Garlic is fantastic for the immune system, my family and I eat a ton of fresh garlic every day. Almost every meal that I make includes garlic except of course, my oatmeal.

• Ginseng is also great for the immune system, in fact there are many herbs and roots that are great for boosting the immune system.

• Shiitake mushrooms, these nifty little mushrooms are great for the immune system; in fact several of the recipes I will provide you in the next few days will include them. Many people tend to throw out the stems. The stems are a little chewy, I like to use them but you don’t have to.

• Dandelion greens, these are extraordinary for the immune system. I know they’re bitter folks, so toss them in your salad or throw them in your soup.

• Something else that I have done for many, many years…a warm cup of water with the juice of one lemon every morning.

• Are you getting enough sunlight? Don’t go nutty here folks, I’m not talking about laying out in the sun for hours.

• Become a social butterfly…well, not really. But you should remember that socializing with friends and family is great for the immune system.

• Trouble with sinuses….? You may want to reduce your dairy. Many people find after severely reducing their dairy intake, their sinus problems tend to go away.

• Exercise, exercise, exercise. A little cardio and a little strength is all I’m asking folks. If you can’t get to that, walk your dog!

• Lots of H2O. I’m still surprised constantly at how many people do not get enough water.

• Faith is the most important and easiest way to keep your immune system strong. Trust in God to keep you healthy.

Vicky DeRosa is Founder and CEO of Studio V Health Corp. For more information check out www.studiovhealth.com.

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