As we know, a proper nutritious diet is the key to staying healthy, but stress and mood also influence our immune system. Positive thinking, laughter, and love will enhance the immune function while negativity will depress it. In addition to keeping a positive mind and finding joy and pleasure in every day life, some other lifestyle changes are vital for good health.Here are some tips:1. Diet

Some of the best things you can do are to remove white sugar and high fructose corn syrup from the diet. Focus on eating more natural and organic food. Add plenty of locally grown fruit and vegetables. Eat high quality protein that is not overcooked.

Extra vitamins and minerals along with a wholesome diet are needed to build healthy cells. For example, lack of Vitamin C, A, B12 and zinc can weaken the immune system and lead to more frequent colds.

2. Exercise

The benefits of exercise have been known for a long time. It helps regulate hormones, increase metabolism, increase bone mass, lower cholesterol levels, and increase the immune system. Even the most moderate of exercise programs can achieve this.

3. Reduce the Amount of Toxins

We are constantly exposed to toxins through cleaning products, food, and pollution. The different toxins create free radicals in the body which can lead to diseases like diabetes, heart problems, allergies, nerve damage, mental disorders, and cancer to name a few.

Therefore it is important to feed the body with antioxidants that can neutralize the free radicals. Blueberries, lentils, pinto and black beans, oranges, pumpkin, and spinach are high in antioxidants.

Make sure you eat a variety of fruit and vegetables.

4. Avoid refined carbohydrates 

High glycemic index carbohydrates such as refined sugar, flour, and white rice are anti-nutrients. They rob the cells of nutrients, making it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients. They stress organs and processes by spiking the blood sugar. Constant blood spikes will lead to inflammation

5. Make Sure You Get enough Probiotics

Probiotics mean pro-life and they restore the balance in the intestines. We need good bacteria to maintain good health. The good bacteria helps break down food to keep the intestines healthy.

Acidophilus and bifidophilus assist in fighting inflammation by killing dangerous microorganism. Acidophilus makes the lactos needed to digest milk, and it is also involved in producing several B vitamins. Fermented vegetables, soured milk, kombucha, and kefir are some ways you can get Probiotics.

6. Eat More Alkaline Food

Normal pH is 6.0-7.0 but most of us are acidic. The acidity provokes inflammation, and high acidity prevents the absorption of many vitamins and minerals. It means that the body is constantly deficient even with supplements. Eat more alkalized food such as green vegetables, fruits and lemons. These foods may assist in restoring the pH balance.

The EFA’s assist in regulating important bodily functions such as nerve transfers, allergy and inflammatory reactions. The essential fatty acids are lacking in most western diets, and the deficiency can play an important role in diseases such as eczema, ADD, and inflammatory symptoms.Essential fatty acids are known for improving nerve health and they are also natural anti-inflammatory agents. Flax seed oil is rich in alpha linolenic acid and is often easier to convince children to eat. It contains omega -6 and omega-9.Don’t forget that seeds and nuts are good sources of omega oils. Remember that it is best to buy them whole.

Pure, clean water is needed daily. Water transports nutrients and oxygen into the cell. It also aids in detoxifying the body as well as aiding the metabolism. The benefits of drinking water are endless. I highly recommend the book, You Are Not Sick, You’re Thirsty by Dr F. Batmanghelidj MD.