3 minute read
Boost Your Immune System Naturally
Natural Ways Immune
Most health experts agree that the first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle which involves eating "a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat." They also suggest avoiding stress, since it has been linked to immune system disruption. Here are some tips:
Eat raw fruits and veggies. Raw produce typically has more nutritional content than cooked foods (many people choose to not heat their foods due to the belief that a high-heat process diminishes the overall nutrient value of certain foods). Raw foods are excellent ways to maintain a strong immune system. Drink water. Since a significant portion of our body is water, proper hydration is important. It's a healthy way to flush out toxins and maintain excellent blood flow. Eat garlic. Garlic has been shown to help fight infection, playing a role in everything from staving off the common cold to fighting cancers. Studies have shown that adding garlic to meals on a regular basis may deter the development of pre-cancerous colon and digestive tract lesions. It's considered nature's natural antibiotic, brimming with anti-viral and anti-
to Boost Your System! by Margaret DeStefano
bacterial compounds. Get rest. The body repairs itself best when it is at rest, allowing the immune system to function at ideal levels so it can essentially help recharge the body. Think about people who lack sleep. Often, they develop colds more often and are more susceptible to illnesses. So important is sleep that even the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is on board noting that "insufficient sleep is an important public health concern." Get some sunlight. Getting vitamin D from the sun does wonders for the body. In fact, the aforementioned Harvard University health specialists explain that vitamin D has been known to help people with tuberculosis. Apparently, vitamin D triggers an antimicrobial response to the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis, helping to combat the condition. Treating the body well by enjoying healthy kinds of food and drink, while also getting plenty of sunlight and rest are keys to boosting the immune system.
get Creative with your Lawn...
While grass seems like a logical landscape solution, it's waterintensive, and high-maintenance. So, if you're trying to cut down on grassmaintenance costs without sacrificing the luscious green landscape, there is a way out. A few alternatives are easier on your wallet, health, and the environment. The most sustainable options include moss beds, clover, sedum plants, creeping thyme, chamomile, and Corsican mint. Similarly, you can go with an eco-lawn with wood chippings and gravel. If everything else fails, create a mini wildflower meadow by letting native plants and flowers take over. Don't forget to plant trees around your home. The larger your garden, the more trees you should grow, including fruit trees, which provide more shade, translating to lower energy bills. Here's a bonus: a little orchard can also offer you mouthwatering fruits!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Join the team of volunteers that provide portable showers to SLO's homeless population. All it takes is a 3-hour commitment to make a difference in others' lives. Shower Locations: Sun: SLO Library (12:30a - 3:30p) T/Th: UUSLO by Meadow Park (10a - 1p) W: Grover Beach People's Kitchen (10:30a - 1:30p) Contact our Volunteer Coordinator at: ccgrether@gmail.com Visit website for more info: www.showerthepeopleslo.org
by Kathy McCorry, CEO
We invite you to join South County Chambers of Commerce so you can take advantage of the opportunities to network, access resources, grow your business, and advertise. South County Chambers of Commerce is a regional Chamber that supports businesses and nonprofits from Avila Beach to Nipomo as well as businesses in surrounding regions who want to reach residents and tourists in South San Luis Obispo County. New Chamber members receive a free newsletter ad, radio spots, new member announcement social media post, and a highlight feature in our monthly newsletter “South County Business News.” Your ribbon-cutting event (at your location or one of our Chamber offices) will be shared on our social media channels and featured in our newsletter. Chamber members also have access to our high-traffic website to set up a profile page. We offer lots of opportunities to network and get more involved in the community. Learn more at southcountychambers.com.
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