Boost Your Immune System

Well, it’s that time of year again. Summer is almost over, the new school year is starting and it’s almost cold season.  But never fear: help is here! Keep reading to find out how you can take care of your immune system and stay healthy…
The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against infection. Its major components include lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, the thymus gland and tonsils (if you still have them.) There are two types of immunity present in our bodies: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is present at birth and provides an initial barrier against microorganisms. You acquire adaptive immunity later in life, usually after fighting off an infection.  The name says it all: adaptive immunity "remembers" these invaders and adapts to recognize and ward them off again should they recur.
It is believed you can help enhance your adaptive immunity by taking a daily supplement that includes vitamin C. zinc, and Echinacea. 
Probiotics may also help boost your immune system functioning:. They help “friendly bacteria" and help to keep your digestive tract healthy (appear to have some beneficial effect on your immune system). They can be found in dietary supplements or as a nutritional ingredient in yogurt and other foods.
But remember, the best bet for keeping healthy this cold season is to eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, get plenty of exercise and enough sleep each night. Your immune system will thank you for it!