Local Weather Forecast
Today: Current:73	Saturday: 94/73	Sunday: 96/74
Complete Forecast for  Aug 30 2008

TOP JOBS

The human immune system is the body’s defense against infectious organisms and other invaders. The immune system is made up of a network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to protect the body. In most cases, the immune system does a great job of keeping people healthy and preventing infections; however, problems with the immune system can lead to illness and infection.

There are some things that you can do to help keep your immune system strong. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccines against pneumonia and the flu for older adults in addition to routine boosters, like having your tetanus updated every 10 years. For more information on vaccines, talk to your health provider or visit http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines.

Because your body may be constantly battling poor health habits, there are some other considerations besides vaccinations that may help keep your immune system strong. The top recommendation for a strong immune system is reducing stress. Stress and what happens in your body during stress may impact your ability to remain healthy negatively. The good news is that lowering your stress can help your body maintain both your physical and your emotional health. Other factors that may help improve your immune system are

Sleep: Prolonged sleep deprivation wears down immune protection but getting adequate rest can help boost your defenses. To help give your immune system an extra boost, get seven to eight hours of sleep a night.

Exercise: Moderate exercise, like a brisk 30-minute walk, most days each week, has been shown to increase your immunity to disease. However, exercising too much may actually run down your immune system and make your more susceptible to illness.

Diet: A diet low in red meat and high in fish, fruits and vegetables may be beneficial to your immune system as well as your overall health.

This information was researched and provided by Dr. Andrew Crocker, Extension Program Specialist for Gerontology. Shelia Lewis is a Smith County Extension agent in family and consumer sciences. She can be reached at sk-lewis@tamu.edu.