HealthyLife Articles

Tag: illness prevention

  • Get Moving To Boost Your Immunity

    BE FIT

    Two pairs of shoes and a jump rope.

    Exercise provides so many health benefits. Recent research now adds strengthening the immune system to the list. Here are three ways exercise can help fight infections and prevent you from getting sick.

    *  Regular bouts of moderate to high-intensity exercise reduce inflammation in the body. Lower levels of inflammation are linked to a decreased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

    *  Exercise supports the healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. These bacteria, called the microbiome, make up about 70% of your immune system.

    *  Consistent physical activity may prevent the decline in immune function that is common as people age. Being active keeps the body’s defense system in peak condition.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Wash It Off

    General Health Conditions

    Father and young daughter washing their hands.

    Washing hands regularly can do a lot to prevent disease. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. Dry off your hands to stave off bacteria, choosing paper towels over hand dryers, if possible. Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not readily available. However, washing your hands with water is best for washing away germs. Cold water works just as well as warm, and in the winter, using warm water can actually dry out your skin faster.

    Be More Earth-Friendly

    When washing your hands in a public restroom, and no paper towels are handy, air drying is best and uses no additional energy.

    Health at Home Lifetime book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine