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Everyone’s worried about the new strain of swine flu that appears to be spreading. Therefore, this is a good time to strengthen your immune system by practicing the following:

1. eat a good diet, including fish, antioxidants from fruits and vegetables and Vitamin D. In a study reported in Archives of Internal Medicine, published Feb 23, 2009, patients with low levels of Vitamin D were more likely to sustain an upper respiratory tract infection.

2. drink plenty of water, about 8 glasses per day, to rid the body of toxins and waste.

3. get plenty of sleep, at least 7 hours each night. Adequate sleep reduces stress and depression. Lack of sleep increases the chance of contracting a disease.

4. reduce stress by doing what makes you happy to increase IGA,a protein that counteracts infection by raising brain chemicals called endorphins. Even a hug will help. I enjoy viewing the wild parrots of Sunnyvale.

5. exercise to help alleviate stress and depression, promote psychological well being and helps you prevent or manage chronic disease, such as osteoporosis. Exercise also helps you sleep better.

6. incorporate a weekly sauna into your routine. Saunas help you release impurities and germs, help reduce stress and increases heart rate as during a cardio workout. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition, ask your doctor before going to a sauna.

Visit your healthcare provider if you have flu symptoms—high fever, muscle aches, severe headache.

WebMD resource

WebMD Flu Guide at http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/flu-guide/default.htm

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Last modified: 04/27/09