Boost Your Immune System

Every day you encounter germs that have the potential of making you sick. So it’s up to you to get your body in the best possible shape so that when it does come across any germs, it can get rid of the germs quickly. Valerie Kasmiersky, M.D., family medicine physician, on the Baylor Plano medical staff, provides a few tips on how to boost your immune system.

• Rest up. A study at the University of Chicago revealed that with as few as three successive nights of insufficient sleep, one can increase his or her health risks equivalent to gaining 20 to 30 pounds. Various factors such as genetics, age and activity level come into play when determining the ideal amount of sleep your body needs each night, but a good estimate is between seven and a half to nine hours a night.
• Clean up. One of the easiest ways to boost your immune system and stay healthy is to wash your hands regularly. According to research, almost 90% of sickness comes from germs on our hands that enter our body through our eyes, nose or mouth. 
• Drink up. Water is fundamental to avoiding fatigue and helps your entire body operate at its best. Aim for at least 64 ounces each day, and get more if you exercise frequently. If you try to drink water throughout the day it will become more of a habit rather than another thing you have to add to your to-do-list.
• Spice it up. Adding garlic to your sauces and dishes is a tasty, quick and easy way to boost your immune system. Garlic is an effective disease fighter and can prevent bacteria from developing. Consider adding a loaf of garlic bread to your next meal or including garlic in your next meat or poultry dish.