Physicians Sports and Injury Center Recommends Boosting Immune System to Prevent Illnesses

Westmont, IL, March 19, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Regardless of the time of year, the most important way to protect against coughs, colds and viruses is to boost the immune system. Consider that a strengthened immune system can also decrease one's risk of acquiring allergies, cancers, infections, and certain immunodeficiency disorders, according to Darrell Wehrend, DC, chiropractor and owner of Physicians Sports and Injury Center in Westmont.

To function properly, the immune system requires harmony and balance. That means following a healthy lifestyle that includes eating right, maintaining a fitness regimen and getting proper rest. To keep the flu bug away and remain productive at work, consider these tips:

Stay well hydrated. Consume lots of water—try drinking in ounces half your body weight in pounds for optimum health. Also, because micro-organisms flourish in a dry sinus environment, keep your nasal passages moist and hydrated: use saline sprays or, better yet, a homeopathic remedy that includes liquid iodine and distilled water.

Take needed supplements. In the Chicagoland area, people don't get a lot of sun in the wintertime, which can lead to a deficiency in vitamin D, the agent responsible for promoting bone growth and healing, modulating neuromuscular functioning, reducing inflammation and more. Additionally, one can get extra vitamin C (an antioxidant that protects cells from damaging toxins), restore the acid-alkali balance in the body, promote healthy bacteria and eradicate harmful viruses by consuming more lemons (squeeze the juice into your water). Other immune enhancers to consider taking include echinacea, arabinogalactan, and essential fatty acid supplements such as fish oil, flax seed oil, evening primrose oil, and black currant seed oil.

Get a good night’s rest. Experts recommend a minimum of seven to eight hours of restful sleep per night for your mind and body to function at peak performance.

Maintain a well-balanced, calorie-smart diet. Munch on raw vegetables and fruits, which are loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes and fiber. Ingest extra protein, which can fortify your immune system. Avoid excess refined sugars, which can trigger an energy crash, weight gain, clouded thoughts and cravings for more unhealthy foods.

Exercise regularly. Get outside, breathe the fresh, cool air and briskly walk, jog, ski, snowboard, sled, play with your kids, etc. Stick to a consistent exercise program to keep those holiday pounds off, strengthen muscles and joints and further bolster the immune system.

Sanitize hands regularly. Scrub hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after eating, shake hands, treat a cut/wound, handle garbage or visit the bathroom. One should use a hand sanitizer when they cannot wash with soap and water. And, above all, refrain from touching the eyes, nose or mouth with the hands, which can quickly spread bacteria.

Get tested for risks and deficiencies. Talk to a doctor about having blood, hair and/or saliva tests conducted to determine if medications or supplements are needed, reduce cholesterol, or change habits.

For more helpful suggestions, contact Dr. Darrell Wehrend, a licensed chiropractic physician and owner of Physicians Sports and Injury Center, a Westmont-based health care center dedicated to providing the highest quality of chiropractic and rehabilitative medical care to patients across the Chicago area. To contact him, e-mail Nicole White, Office Manager, at nicole@physicianssports.com, phone 630-323-2225 or visit PhysiciansSports.com.

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