Immune System Health Part 2   

Your immune system is an important factor in your overall health.  Having a strong immune system will help you to fight off most of the germs and infections that you come into contact with.  Your winters will be nicer, you will take less sick days, and your body will thank you for it.  Chiropractic treatment can help you establish and maintain good immune system health.  By restoring alignment you increase functionality and allow your body to do what it needs to do to keep you healthy and happy.

Obesity: Obesity can decrease your white blood cell’s ability to produce antibodies and prevent inflammation.  White blood cells may not multiply as quickly as they should if you are obese.  Obesity makes you vulnerable to influenza.  Obesity is hard on your body in general, but it wears down your immune system and leaves you vulnerable to germs and infections.

Too many medications: Ingesting too many antibiotics or medications meant to fight colds and fever can actually weaken your immune system.  You may develop bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.  Consider alternative options, chiropractic treatment can help to address many issues that lead people to over medicate themselves.

Hygiene: Exposing your immune system to too many germs can weaken it.  Taking some steps to maintain proper hygiene can help to keep your immune system strong. Keep your nails neat and wash your hands thoroughly.  Keep your teeth maintained by brushing twice a day.

Sunburns: Exposure to UV radiation cause damage to your body and weaken your immune system as well as contributing to skin cancer and cataracts.  The UV rays may inhibit the cells that trigger your body’s immune response.  Take the time to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing and sunglasses when you will be out in the sun.

Smoking: If your body is flooded with toxins your immune system will be less effective.  Cigarettes are filled with toxins, over 4,000 chemicals and all of them are toxic.  Second hand smoke can also have an effect on your health.  We know that cigarettes are bad all round, 16 million people have a disease from smoking and 8.6 million people are living with a serious illness that was caused by smoking.  Lung, throat, nasal cavity, mouth, esophagus, stomach, bladder, pancreas, kidney, and cervix cancers are all caused by smoking, as well as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, tuberculosis, asthma, decreased lung growth, type 2 diabetes and ED.  E-cigarettes expose you to nicotine as well, reducing B and T cell formation and immune response ability.  The damage can also make the lungs more vulnerable to infection.  Want to build your immune system? Kick the smoking habit.

Alcohol: Too much alcohol can reduce the white blood cells ability to kill germs.  Alcohol can make your lungs more prone to viral and bacterial issues.  Over time, frequent excessive consumption can make you vulnerable to infections diseases and cancer. The occasional drink can be good for you, but be careful of excesses. Alcohol can dehydrate you which can impede your immune response.

Dehydration:  Proper hydration allows your body to eliminate the byproducts of illnesses and helps your immune system fight off attackers.  Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.  Drinking a glass of water before each meal will help you with portion control as well as help you remember to stay hydrated.

Loneliness or loss: The anxiety that is often associated with loneliness can suppress the immune system.  Grief can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of viral infections. Reaching out to a loved one can help boost your immune system. Hugs can boost your immunity as well.

If you are tired of frequent sick days and dread the onset of winter call our office.  We can help you build healthy habits into your daily life and our gentle chiropractic treatment will restore alignment and functionality to your body.