Tip One:  Reduce Your Stress 

Some stress can be a good thing.  It’s how your body prepares for a challenge, like giving a presentation or speaking in public.  But a steady stream of stress can be bad for your health, weaken your immune system which as we know fights off disease and illness.  How do you reduce stress?  Say no to things that make you worried or anxious.  Take the time to relax and do things you enjoy.

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Tip Two:  Keep a Positive Attitude

Good thoughts can give your immune system a healthy boost.  Take time to savor the things you enjoy, look for the silver lining in difficult situations and try not to dwell on negative thoughts.

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Tip Three:  Have a Laugh

A true belly laugh might be good for you. One study found that people who laughed out loud at funny videos had higher immune function after watching the clip.

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Tip Four:  Eat Your Antioxidants

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help you get a healthy dose of antioxidants.  These substances found in foods help protect your cells from free radicals, molecules that can damage cells.  Choose fruits and vegetables in a rainbow color, like oranges, green peppers, broccoli, kiwi, strawberries, carrots, watermelon, and leafy greens.

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Tip Five:  Take Your Vitamins

If you think your diet needs a boost, consider taking a multivitamin.  A daily multivitamin can provide the building blocks of a healthy immune system.  Nutrients that may be important for immune system health include selenium, vitamins A,C, D and E, Zinc and Magnesium.

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Tip Six:  Consider Herbs and Supplements

Many people take herbs or supplements to improve their health.  Products that can help your immune system include: garlic, ginseng, milk thistle, astragalus, and probiotics like lactobacillus. 

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Tip Seven:  Keep Your Body Moving

Exercise is a simple way to strengthen your immune system.  It can also reduce stress and make you less likely to get osteoporosis, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.  You get the most benefit from about a half an hour of  moderate activity every day. 

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Tip Eight: Wash your hands

One easy way to help your immune system flight illness is to wash your hands often.