Building your immune system naturally

By Dr. Lisa A. Merritt, D.C., C.T.N., C.Ac.

Dietary Changes:
Reduce refined and processed foods. Reduce simple sugars and carbohydrates. Eat 6-7 servings of vegetables /day. Eat 2 fresh fruits /day. Eat meats moderately and preferably fish first. Eat other non-meat protein sources e.g. beans, nuts, seeds, soy. Eat whole grains and limit wheat products. Drink six to eight 8oz. purified water /day. Drink 2-3 cups medicinal herbal tea/day e.g., green, ginseng, licorice, dandelion, chamomile, etc. Avoid soda or flavored waters. Use cold pressed oils only and limit or avoid fried products. Limit excess dairy. Try yogurt and goat chesses. Never use margarine fake fats or fake sugars. Watch portions of all servings.

Supplemental changes: Take if immune system is low

Lifestyle Changes:

Get 7-8 hours of sleep/night
Stretch daily and cardiovascular exercise 3x/week
Learn lymphatic points and massage 2x/week
Take hot Epsom salt baths to help purify body and reduce pain
Practice stress reduction techniques e.g., deep breathing and meditation
Receive Chiropractic adjustment 2-3x/week
Get acupuncture at immune points
Get therapeutic massage 1x/week