HEALTH TALK
A Local Lorain Resident Offers Helping Hands By Dr. Sam Salas, DC
What is health? What makes a person healthy? Why do some people catch a virus and feel ill while others seem to have little to no symptoms at all? A healthy constitution consists of many things, including genetics, diet, exercise, stress, rest, and toxicity. As far as toxicity is concerned, the avoidance of harmful chemicals is crucial to long-term health. This avoidance can be difficult in today's environment, which is why ensuring other areas are at optimal levels at all times. I will cover toxicity, diet, and exercise more in-depth in the future. But, to quickly break it down, a proper diet consists of a variety of foods: foods that are preferably low in sugar content, that include a high content of leafy greens, vegetables, protein and nuts, and that limit starchy foods such as potatoes, cereals, and noodles. Specific values vary depending on one's body type, allergies, and exercise habits.
It is a good idea for some people to supplement their diets with nutrients depending on conditions they may have, but in general, there are a few that can help boost a person's immune system. Vitamins C, D, and E are essential immune enhancers, and glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid, and zinc provide powerful antioxidant protection to the body. By no means is this list allencompassing, but rather the building blocks that help maintain health. Exercising for approximately 30 minutes per day, depending on intensity, can naturally enhance the body's immune response. Alternatively, too little or too much exercise can give the opposite effect and can hurt the immune system.
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Eight hours of sleep are also beneficial to maintain optimal health. Inconsistencies as to when you sleep and wake and whether you are taking medications to fall asleep also play factors.
Lorain Local Magazine | page 34
