Exercise Benefits

"People who exercise 5 or more days a week spend 43% fewer days with upper-respiratory infections.  Aim for 30-60 minutes daily.  It boosts blood flow so that the immune cells circulate throughout the body." Appalachian State University Study

With influenza rates much higher this year than some years, it is important to incorporate habits that support our health.  5-10% of us will get the flu in an average year, and this is not an average year.  So, how can we stay healthy even with the demands of caregiving?  We can exercise at least 5 days a week.  We can meditate.  A study at the University of Wisconsin found we could cut our chance of catching a cold by 40-50% by meditating.  Meditation reduces physical effects of stress, and stress can weaken our immune systems.  We can try taking probiotics, which can help reduce the risk of both respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.  We can also practice qigong, a Chinese mind-body exercise that combines breath control and slow movements -- which also helps to reduce stress.  We can make sure we get the flu vaccine.  We can thoroughly wash and dry our hands often.  Getting enough sleep is an important way to support our health.  Cutting back on sweets can help our bodies.  Loma Linda University research indicates that just 6 tablespoons of sugar can reduce the body's ability to fight off viruses.  Oregano, thyme, and turmeric can help boost our immune systems.  Astragalus, the root vegetable, has been found to activate T-cells to help fight viruses.  Let's make sure we are not among the people who succumb to the flu.