Boosting your Immune System
For any of you concerned about avoiding illness affecting your training, check out the following top tips for boosting your immune system.
Get Enough Protein
Immune cells are produced more rapidly during an infection so we need enough protein to make sure our body can do this. However don’t go crazy with the protein (The Atkins diet etc) since too much protein can suppress your immune system (probably because it uses up too much vitamin B6)
Cut down on Saturated fat
Saturated fats and hydrogenated fats can prolong a cold or the flue by clogging up the lymphatic vessels (which are used to clear toxins), essential fats (omega 3,6,9) which are found in nuts, seeds and fish actually boost the immune system!
Increase your fruit and Vegetable intake.
The minerals provided in Fruits and Vegetables are vital for an effective immune system. Don’t leave home without them! Particularly useful for fighting colds etc are carrots, beetroots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and bean sprouts. Fruit wise watermelons and berries are great.
Cut down on refined sugar and increase your sleep.
Cortisol is a hormone that is produced after the consumption of excess sugar and is elevated when we are tired and run down. It also suppresses the immune system.
For a better understanding as to why you might have the cold please have a look at the desease tree
Urban Vitality
