In 2007
the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that 1 in 150
eight-year-old children in the United States has an autism spectrum
disorder (ASD). This shocking life and health statistic spurred a
barrage of debates: are the elevated numbers simply the result of
improved diagnosis or is something else"perhaps something society is
doing"causing an increase in ASDs?
Autism spectrum disorders are listed as "pervasive developmental
disorders" in a widely accepted authoritative reference tool, Diagnostic
and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (Text
Revision), or DSM-IV-TR, published by the American Psychiatric
Association. The causes of ASDs are undetermined, but evidence points to
a strong genetic component.
Many parents and families of children with ASDs are looking beyond
the genetics and are expressing grave concerns about a possible
connection between immunization" in particular the standard combined
measles, mumps and rubella vaccine that is routinely administered to
children around the world" and autism. The main ingredient in question
is thimerosal (called thiomersal in some countries), a preservative that
is 49 percent ethylmercury.
Not all vaccines under debate incorporate thimerosal, which has now
been phased out of most childhood vaccines. It remains in many influenza
vaccines, however. The CDC maintains that "there is no convincing
evidence of harm caused by the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines,
except for minor reactions." Even so, the number of people claiming to
have been harmed by vaccinations prompted the U.S. Court of Federal
Claims to establish the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program "as
a no-fault compensation scheme whereby persons allegedly suffering
injury or death as a result of the administration of certain compulsory
childhood vaccines may petition the federal government for monetary
damages." As of June 2007, about 5,000 claimants with autism or similar
conditions have filed for compensation.
Although long-term studies on the subject are ongoing, the official
stance of government organizations in many countries is that there is no
connection between vaccinations and autism. The World Health
Organization states that "there is no reason on grounds of safety to
change current immunization practices with thiomersal-containing
vaccines, as the risks are unproven." The position of the U.S. National
Institute of Child Health and Human Development is similar: "To date
there is no definite, scientific proof that any vaccine or combination
of vaccines can cause autism."
Like ASD, the causes of schizophrenia, another mental disorder listed
in the DSM-IV-TR, are undetermined, but evidence points to a strong
genetic connection. This is largely based on studies of siblings and
twins, particularly monozygotic (genetically identical) twins. When one
twin develops schizophrenia, the other has a 50 percent likelihood of
developing the disorder as well. An important factor that seems to be
overlooked in some studies is that two-thirds of monozygotic twins share
more than genetics: their shared placenta is a strong environmental
factor.
This environmental link is reinforced by recent research, which shows
a strong connection between maternal infections (especially influenza)
during the first half of pregnancy and increased risk of schizophrenia
in the fetus. The infected mother’s immune system releases special
proteins to fight the infection, and these cytokines (specifically
interleukin-6) may have a negative effect on the neurological
development of the unborn child.
At least one scientist has taken this concept further. Paul
Patterson, professor of biology at the California Institute of
Technology (Caltech) and research professor at the Keck School of
Medicine at the University of Southern California, studies the relation
of maternal infections to both autism and schizophrenia. In a 2005
lecture at Caltech, Patterson quoted the CDC’s recommendation that
pregnant women should routinely get flu shots. At first glance, the
recommendation may seem sensible, as pregnant women would want to avoid
getting influenza, which could cause their immune systems to impair the
developing minds of their unborn children. But then comes the zinger:
"And what does a vaccination do? It activates the immune system. That’s
the point of vaccination."
This is a perplexing conundrum. The very thing that some recommend to
prevent problems could actually be causing mental disorders in the
unborn child.
Patterson concluded, "In practice, not all pregnant women receive flu
shots, and I think that universal vaccination of pregnant women could
get us into a whole new set of problems. I’m hoping, therefore, that a
way will be found to intervene somehow and repair the damage or
reregulate the immune system." Of course, the CDC still recommends that
pregnant women be vaccinated against influenza. Less invasive
precautions include frequent hand washing with soap and water and
avoidance of those who are ill. It is important for the life and health
of all, born and unborn, to practice good hygiene and cleanliness, to
cough and sneeze away from others into a disposable tissue or at least
into the upper arm, and to follow the principles of quarantine.
Although modern medicine has made great strides in many areas, we
still have many social issues and much to learn about the connections
between body and mind, and even more about the connections between
maternal body and fetal mind.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Fact Sheet
Pregnancy, Immunity, Schizophrenia and Autism
Author, Alice Abler, contributes articles on life and
health and social issues for Vision Media. For more information about
these and other topics, please visit the Vision Media website.
On the anniversary of the birth of this nation, July 4th 2020, the
Columbus statue was torn down by violent protesters & thrown into
the Baltimore's harbor. While some are glad it's gone, many are
outraged,. (Continued below..........)
** (Disclaimer: This video content is intended for educational and informational purposes only) **
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(..........Continued......) Since this act occurred on Independence Day, I thought of Frederick
Douglass & wondered how a man of the 19th Century, a former slave,
might have responded. In a speech he gave in New York on July 5th,
1852, Douglass spoke on the topic, "What to a slave is the Fourth of
July?"
At the time he spoke, slave states were an ugly, sinful fact in the
southern United States. African-Americans were not free in 1776; none
could vote, many were enslaved. Douglass understood that our emotional
feeling toward "independence" was very likely a reflection of how one's
ancestors were treated at the time America gained its freedom. Some
regard the discovery of this country and the astounding advancements
that would come over the next 500 years with pride; others could only
note that the path to liberty did not end in 1776, 1865, or even with
the passage of the Civil Rights Acts in the mid-1960s.
Baltimore officials should have known Columbus would be a target and
taken steps before the protest took place. It's failure to do so
(indeed, its entire failure to keep the peace) was an epic failure in
leadership.
Some had called upon Governor Hogan to protect this statue because of
the recent heightened tensions. Others had & some have asked for
its removal before now. Mayor Young did nothing to address these
requests. City Council President Brandon Scott, now a mayoral
candidate, said he supports the Italian-American community but can't
support Columbus. He didn't explain how allowing a violent mob to enter
Little Italy to destroy a landmark of Italian heritage "supported" the
Italian-America community.
These reckless acts of omission by elected leaders...of not even
bothering to show up...of giving the streets up to violence... are
unacceptable. They show a disregard not only for all the citizens of
Baltimore but for the rule of law. This city of ours is afflicted by
corrupt one-party rule. Instead of showing maturity and judgment, our
elected "leaders" took the easy road and allowed the mob to rule the
day. They were afflicted by how Douglass felt in his day instead of
being public officials with power to prevent such things occuring today,
they acted powerless.
With leadership like this, Baltimore can expect to be home to the
next CHAZ zone, something this city cannot afford on top of its already
historic crime rate.
It's time we elect new leadership in Baltimore that will govern by
the people & for all the people. There are positive things we can do
about inequality when you govern properly & it's not by giving
power away or not leading at all.
Spiritual
warfare prayers are more important now than they ever were before.
What do you think of when you hear the phrase "spiritual warfare"? If
you have images of the latest supernatural Hollywood blockbuster on the
brain, you might want to reconsider. Unfortunately, it seems that the
subject of spiritual warfare has two main camps, those who do not
believe in it at all and those who see demonic activity in every aspect
of life. Both of these camps are reluctant to talk about the subject
albeit for vastly different reasons.
Biblical Concept
The truth is if you are going to believe in God, the Bible is your
guidance system. It is this authority you should turn to for more
information on the subject. The Bible clearly states that Satan and
demonic activity are a reality. It is not presented in some spooky,
hocus pocus sense but matter of factly. The truth is, if you are going
to take any part of the Bible as fact, then you must accept the entire
writing, which includes the presence of demons, Satan, possession and
spiritual warfare.
Do Not Fear
In the Bible the phrase "do not fear" is repeated several times, even
when it comes to the activities of dark spirits. Jesus has overcome the
power of darkness and indeed the entire world; so as a Christian, there
is little to worry about. The problem is, many Christians do not
understand their place, especially as it relates to spiritual warfare.
Jesus came to the world to save it, and upon his death He took the
keys of death, hell and the grave. He ascended to Heaven where he is
seated at the right hand of God; as believers, we are united with Him,
far above demonic activity.
Prayer
Spiritual warfare will not be fought with weapons made of human
hands. Instead, it will be waged in prayer by believers and with the
believers on their knees. Christians do not fight against flesh and
blood but against principalities, powers of darkness and spiritual
wickedness in high places, Ephesians 6:12. When the disciples asked
Jesus how they were to pray, the answer He gave was The Lord's Prayer,
which is key when it comes to spiritual warfare.
One thing you should know about prayer in general and not just as it
pertains to spiritual warfare; it needs to be fervent and continuous in
nature. Take the example of Christ in the garden just before he was to
be taken and crucified. Jesus prayed until his sweat was as droplets of
blood! This would be the very definition of fervent and intense prayer.
Conclusion
Spiritual warfare is not a new age concept. It was dealt with in the
biblical text at some length. Jesus dealt with the man who was demon
possessed from the area of Gadarenes. Even his disciples talked about
those demons they could not cast out and He replied to them that some
would not be moved accept through prayer and fasting! Dealing with Satan
and his horde is not fairy tale fodder; it is a fact of the world you
live in.
There is Practical Spiritual Warfare which all of us deal with each
and every day; it shows up in the simple, everyday happenings of life.
The important thing to remember is not to overplay or underplay its
significance in your life of as a Christian and to fervently pray. Satan
and his demons must flee at the name of Jesus Christ.
Watch live on Thursday, Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. ET: President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden face off in a debate moderated by NBC News' Kristen Welker.
Political Campaign Debate in the Nineteenth Century
Author
Jack Sterling
By the
middle of the nineteenth century, slavery was emerging as an issue of
increasing political campaign focus. The question about whether or not
it should be permitted was nothing new to political debate, but, by the
mid-1800s more and more focus was placed on how to respond to the issue.
For the political campaign of 1840, in which Martin Van Buren was
defeated in his bid for reelection, a group of abolitionists formed
their own political party--the Liberty Party--and nominated their own
candidate for president.
Although their bid for the presidency was unsuccessful, it was a sign
that this was becoming an issue that presidential candidates would have
to address. That issue would be particularly disastrous for the
Democratic Party.
From 1841 to 1845, the Whigs occupied the White House. William Henry
Harrison served as president only a month before dying of pneumonia. He
was the first president to die in office. John Tyler, the vice
president, became president. The former Democrat struggled to work with
the Whig Congress members; their disgust with his policies became so
strong that the Whigs ultimately decided to expel Tyler from their
political party. An impeachment resolution was introduced into the House
of Representatives, but it failed to pass.
When the Democratic political campaign convention was again held in
Baltimore, President Tyler sent representatives to suggest that he
should be nominated by the Democrats. Martin Van Buren also sought the
nomination, but his outspoken position on whether or not Texas would be
annexed (forcibly added) by the United States (he was opposed, fearing
it would spark a war with Mexico) caused him to lose support of most
delegates.
Following a financial crisis during the presidency of Martin Van
Buren, the Whig Party (his fierce opponents) were quick to seize on the
opportunity for the upcoming political campaign. They labeled the
president "Martin Van Ruin" and selected William Henry Harrison as their
candidate in the 1840 presidential campaign.
The Whigs skillfully presented Harrison as a candidate similar to
Andrew Jackson--a military hero who had defeated the British at the
Battle of the Thames. Harrison was given the nickname "Old Tippecanoe"
and was presented as another self-made candidate of humble beginnings,
with images of a log cabin often appearing on posters that advertised
his candidacy.
There was little truth in this political campaign image making.
Harrison was the son of an aristocratic Virginia family and had lived on
an impressive estate in the Ohio countryside. In fact, Van Buren's
childhood had been far more humble than Harrison's. Nonetheless, Van
Buren was depicted by the Whigs as a polished, elegantly dressed
politician and contrasted with their candidate who, they claimed, liked
nothing more than a swig of hard cider from a jug.
Political campaign speakers suggested to voters that the choice was
"between the log cabin and the palace, between hard cider and
champagne." Harrison's running mate was John Tyler of Virginia, who had
been a Democrat but left the party after disagreeing with many of
Jackson's policies.
The Democratic political campaign convention was held in Baltimore in
May of 1840. It was at this convention that the party's name was
officially changed from the Democratic-Republican Party to the
Democratic Party. The party nominated Van Buren but did not name a
vice-presidential candidate.
The Whigs proved their mastery of the political campaign, using the
symbols of the log cabin and cider jugs to promote their candidate and
transform the election into entertainment. Nearly 80 percent of all
those eligible to vote did so in the election. Van Buren lost. The era
of Jacksonian democracy had come to an end.
God created humans by pairs. He
created men and women that in the end they could be together and form
whose name is family. What do you think about love and trust? The Bible
verse itself applies as the best book that can help you make the right
conclusion about love itself.
God as the formation of the first family, Adam and Eve want all
families can be happy. Unfortunately, the first family did not obey. As a
result, they suffer. God tells us how we with a partner can be happy.
Even though now you have a relationship as a lover or has become a
husband and wife.
In the Bible, there are so much practical advice and principles that
can help associated with love loyalty. Especially if now you are facing
unwanted situations like a distant partner (LDR) and when you miss
someone. Let's align our way of thinking according to the Bible view in
the Bible verse below.
Bible Verses about Love and Trust
1 John 3:18
"Little children, we should love, not in word or with the tongue, but in deed and truth"
Love itself according to the Bible is not only shown through words.
But every word spoken must be in harmony with actions in the truth. God
wants his people, especially couples to love each other in all aspects
of life not only by boasting.
Philippians1:10
"that you may make sure of the more important things, so that you may
be flawless and not stumbling others up to the day of Christ,"
What God commands in the Bible is the way so that we are happy to the
end. Including the way to choose a life partner, the partner we choose
is part of our lives. Does he also support the good attitude and help
you develop the attitude of the fruit Spirit? A good partner will try to
help each other not to be blameless before God.
"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous. It does not brag,
does not get puffed up, does not behave indecently, does not look for
its own interests, does not become provoked. It does not keep account of
the injury"
True love must be based on love or Agape. Love itself covers many
important attitudes that Christians need to be developed. It includes
for generous, not jealous, not arrogant, not inactivity in disrespect,
not selfish, not angry and did not revenge.
Ephesians 4:31,32
"Put away from yourselves every kind of malicious bitterness, anger,
wrath, screaming, and abusive speech, as well as everything injurious.
But become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving
one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you"
How is the life of a Christian beloved? If they heed the advice of
this Bible to their marriage or relationship can be happy. Each partner
has a conflict or problem, but in this Ephesus book, we are warned to
get rid of all anger and conflict. Instead, the pair must love each
other and forgiving as God has been forgiving us.
Galatia 5:22,23
"On the other hand, the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. Against
such things there is no law."
The nature of the fruit of Spirit in the Galatians book is of the
nature that needs to be developed to strengthen relationships with
partners. Even though we are not perfect we need to exert efforts. Maybe
with a step by step, we can choose one of the nature that you want to
develop first.
Proverbs 12:18
"Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a sword,But the tongue of the wise is a healing."
Our mouth is often supposed like small objects that can ignite the
large fire. What we submit can affect the feelings of people who hear.
Words in Proverbs, say the "Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a
sword,But the tongue of the wise is a healing. so we all should be wise
to use our tongue. This applies to strengthen relationships with your
partner.
Colossians 4:6
"Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should answer each person."
what we do to other people also reflects who we are. If we always
doing something with love for others, people will think of us as a
loving one, like our God is love. Including the way you treat a partner,
if you always try to give love then, your partner will increasingly
love you too.
Philippians 2:2
"make my joy full by being of the same mind and having the same love, being completely united, having the one thought in mind."
Love the pair according to the Bible is also mention through
Philippians 2:2. The two of them will have the same think way, one soul
and the same goal. Thus they can also strengthen each other in faith and
spiritual until their relationship be successful because there is joy
from our God.
Proverbs 20:18
" By consultation, plans will succeed, And by skillful direction wage your war.."
Before making a decision bible in proverbs mention the importance of
careful consideration and thought. Whatever decisions affect your life
especially with partners. Think and invite a partner to help in every
decision you make. With decisions, any problem can be resolved with a
shared mind to think better.
Proverbs 8:32,33
"And now, my sons, listen to me;Yes, happy are those who keep my ways. Listen to discipline and become wise."
In this verse,God says about the important lesson that he gives
through the Bible and never ignores it. Thus, we can be wiser,
especially the best ways to strengthen love relationships with partners.
These are the verses of the Bible that may often hear some of them
when they emphasize what love, strengthening love, loyalty, true love
and so on. In addition to the popular verses above, you can also read
directly in the Bible, the story of the servant of God related to this
discussion.
For example, the story between Isaac and Rebekah. Then there was
Abraham and Sara whose story was recorded in the Bible. How they show
the affection of each other can be used as a good example for couples
today. So much of this information, hopefully, it can be useful.
Come hang out with Nick Swisher, Tino Martinez, Rick Ankiel & Ben Verlander as they react to all the action & answer your questions while the Rays & Dodgers begin their battle to be crowned World Series champion. Plus, you never know who else will stop by for the party. Click here to chat live
During his 20-year career in major league baseball, hall-of-famer Tony Gwynn won eight batting titles, seven Silver Slugger awards and was a fifteen time All-Star. His lifetime batting average of .338 ranks him as one of the greatest hitters in history, and his five Gold Gloves prove that he was as productive on the field as he was at the plate. As head coach at San Diego State, Gwynn led the Aztecs to a regular season title and was named 2004 Mountain West Conference Coach of the Year.
Now, Sportskool offers all of Tony Gwynn's collected wisdom in this Baseball course. Join Tony and his award-winning coaching staff as they break the game down to its fundamentals, so you can build your game from the ground up.
Whether you're just getting started or ready to take your game to the next level, look no further than Baseball Fundamentals with Tony Gwynn. Book this course..........
Look at Tony Gwynn's 1997 season, his 17th in the majors, for proof of the legend's longevity and dominance. Then 37 years old, Gwynn put together career highs in hits, doubles, home runs, and RBI for the arguably best season of his career. Arguably. He only hit .372 that season. And Gwynn did bat .394 in a strike-shortened 1994 season, flirting with the first .400 season since Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941. So analyzing one season of the San Diego Padre is foolish. Gwynn's one of the few athletes to never have an off year. Never. Nothing even close. His string of dominance is almost unparalleled in baseball or any sport. That's why Gwynn's largely considered one of the greatest hitters of all-time, perhaps even the greatest living one. Analyzing Gwynn's batting exploits groups him with names like Cobb, Williams, Rogers Hornsby, Tris Speaker and other icons from more than a century ago. Born May 9, 1960 in Los Angeles, California Retired following 2001 season with a total of 3,141 hits and a career batting average of .338 (both 17th all-time) Batting titles in 1984, 1987-89 and 1994-97 No. 19 jersey retired by the Padres After batting .289 in limited action in 1982, Gwynn hit .300 for 19 consecutive seasons, surpassing Wagner's National League record set from 1897-1913 Hit .350 or better from 1993-1997, becoming only the fourth player in history to top the .350 mark in five consecutive seasons (Cobb, Hornsby and Al Simmons) .394 average in 1994 was the highest average in the National League since 1930 Struck out only 434 times in 10,232 plate appearances over 20 seasons Five Gold Glove Awards. Only two players achieved 3,000 hits in fewer games than Gwynn; five needed fewer at bats 15-time National League All-Star selection. Book this course......
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Baseball Training Aids That You Should Buy
-Brook Ryan
Baseball requires skills. Some people have them since birth, but there are others that can develop the skills through practice. And if you want to make the most out of those practice sessions, you should consider getting baseball training aids.
There are different baseball training aids on the market today. The list below will show you training equipment that is useful for both beginners and advanced players alike. They provide a broad training base for players of all levels.
Batting Cages
By using a batting cage, there’s no need for a team to use several players to do the fielding. It is made of mesh material with metal reinforcements. It will keep the batted balls within the area and can be used with a pitching machine that will maximize the practice time allotted for each batter. With the use of a batting cage, a player can swing at balls at a higher volume in a short amount of time.
There are several factors to consider when buying a batting cage. These are size and material. The batting cage must be able to cover the area between the plate and the pitching mount. However, there are smaller cages on the market that are similar to golf nets. Keep in mind that the large the batting cage, the more expensive its price will be. The frame of batting cages is made of plastic or metal.
Radar Guns
If you are training as a pitcher, then one of the baseball training aids you should buy is a radar gun. It is used to measure the pitching speed. There are several radar guns on the market today, and some are known to provide more accurate measurements than others. There are some models that track the latest speed, while some models monitor the fastest speed of the ball.
Batting Tee
If you want to improve your swing, then you will need a batting tee. It is one of the baseball training aids that help players refine their swing. Beginners often play t-ball, which is a variation of the sport where the baseball is placed on a tee, instead of a pitcher throwing the ball.
Pitching Machine
While a baseball tee is useful in learning the fundamentals of swinging a baseball, it doesn’t train help the hand-eye coordination of the hitter. And that’s why you need to get a pitching machine. It will not get tired and can deliver consistent pitches. Some machines are designed to throw softballs, baseballs, practice balls, and wiffle balls. The more advanced machine is able to do various pitches that include off speed and fastballs.
These are the baseball training aids that you will need if you want to improve your skills. Some of the training aids focus on hitting, while there are others that are used to develop one’s pitching skills. Using the training aids will help you improve your baseball skills in no time.
Brook Ryan has always been interested in the game of baseball. He currently helps run a website where they sellbaseball training aids.
There is no need to think that such workout tools are costly. You
will find that most of the bands are available within your budget. In
fact, you will experience stability and strength when you are
exercising. You will be glad to order such a piece. Also, when you look
out for the product online, you can find ample dealers and compare the
deals.
With the band, you will find improvements in your body which are not
sudden but slow and better. You have to be steady so that you do not
harm yourself in the process. Hence, you will need a tool that will keep
you motivated and regular in your workout. Since you do not depend on
others with this band, you can be regular. Also, you can improve slowly
with this band.
When you have a safe tool to work on yourself, why not
invest in growing rather than depending on others? Such bands will give
you better movement and flexibility as you grow working on your body.
Your
immune system is an amazing machine. It’s responsible for keeping your
body safe from outside invaders like viruses, bacteria, fungi, and
toxins.
There are two main parts of your immune system: the part you were
born with (innate or non-specific system) and the part you develop from
exposure to the environment (adaptive acquired, or specific system).
Your immune system is made of various organs, cells, and proteins –
skin cells, blood, bone marrow, tissues, and organs like the thymus and
lymph glands.
A strong immune system is your best defense against illness and
infection. Without it, you would have no way of fighting off harmful
substances or changes within the body. (Continued below.....)
Anyone who questions vaccines or who wants to discuss vaccines are labeled “anti-vaxx” and are censored heavily by big tech. Have you ever wondered what the scientists and experts discuss behind closed doors? The W.H.O. has openly come forward time and time again defending the safety of vaccines. However, if you keep watching this exclusive preview, you'll see a clip of W.H.O. doctors admitting to shoddy vaccine quality management measures and the actual dangers that vaccines could pose to the public. Learn more @ TTAV2020
(....Continued...)Your immune system has three main tasks:
To fight pathogens (disease-causing “germs”) like viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites and get them out of your body
To recognize and neutralize harmful substances from the environment
To fight disease-causing changes in the body, like cancer cells
Your immune system is activated by antigens – things the body doesn’t
recognize as belonging there. These are proteins on the surfaces of
bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
When the immune system cells come into contact with these antigens, a
whole series of processes are stimulated in your immune system.
The good news is that once your immune system comes in contact with a
germ, it will recognize that germ if it sees it again. This is why
vaccines work to protect you against certain diseases.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top all-natural and safe
immune boosters that everyone can take advantage of to strengthen the
immune response, increase resistance to disease and infection, and help
recover more quickly.
Let’s begin!
Get Plenty of Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can lower your immune response and leave you more likely to succumb to infection.
In a study of 164 adults, the ones who slept less than six hours a
night proved more likely to catch a cold than those who slept longer.
When you’re sleep-deprived, your body makes stress hormones like
cortisol to keep you awake and alert – and that can suppress your immune
system.
And you may also take longer to recover if you’re sleep-deprived.
That’s because your body can’t make enough antibodies to fight off
diseases if you’re not rested.
Your body also releases special proteins (cytokines) that help your
immune system – but they only do that while you’re asleep. Your body
does a lot of healing and regenerating while you’re asleep.
Typical adults should try to get seven or more hours of sleep daily to function properly.
Teens need eight to ten hours a night and younger children and infants need to get up to 14 hours of sleep to be at their best.
People who got a full eight hours of sleep had higher levels of
T-cells than those who slept less, according to a 2019 study. And a 2015
study found that those who get seven hours of sleep are four times less
likely to come down with a cold than those who were sleep-deprived.
Most modern people don’t get enough sleep, which is a shame because it’s an easy fix to a common problem.
Some tips for getting a good night’s sleep include limiting your
screen time starting two to three hours before your bedtime. The blue
light from the TV, computer screen, or cellphone has been shown to
disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycle (circadian rhythm) so shut them
all down.
Another thing to limit is caffeine use. If you’re having a tough time
getting to sleep, try skipping caffeine after noon. Even if you think
your body is used to it, a little caffeine can go a long way.
You can also try sleeping in a totally dark room that is cooler than
the rest of your home, as your body cools down when it’s ready to sleep.
Avoid highly stimulating books or conversations right before bed,
too. They get your adrenaline levels up and you’ll have more trouble
calming back down.
Go to bed at the same time every night, even on your days off, and have a set sleep schedule you follow before getting into bed.
If you’re still having trouble with your sleep, talk to your doctor.
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to a healthy immune system,
as well as many other of your body’s systems. You can’t perform at your
best if you’re sleep-deprived.
Stay Active
Prolonged intense exercise has been shown to lower your immune
response – however, moderate exercise actually boosts that response.
Studies show that even one session of moderate exercise can increase
vaccine effectiveness in those with compromised immune systems.
“Working out is a powerful way to boost your immune system,” says
Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, Jenkins/Pokempner director of preventative and
alternative medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center.
Exercise circulates your antibodies and white blood cells more
rapidly, which helps them detect germs more quickly. “Being active this
way also lowers stress hormones, which reduces your chances of getting
sick,” Moyad adds.
According to a recent study of over 1,000 people, those who exercised
at least five days a week had almost half the risk of coming down with
the common cold than the more sedentary folks.
Regular moderate exercise can reduce inflammation, too, and that is
known to improve your immune system. Exercise can also help your immune
cells to regenerate regularly.
Examples of moderate exercise include 30 to 60 minutes of brisk
walking, jogging, swimming, steady bicycling, and light hiking three to
five times a week.
Notice that most of these are associated with the outdoors. There’s a good reason for taking your exercise outside.
Sunlight can stimulate your T-cells, special parts of your immune
system that help fight off infection. And being outside brings you into
contact with phytoncides and other plant products that can boost your
immune function. It also boosts Vitamin D levels in your body, which
helps your immune system further.
You should also be doing strength training exercises twice a week to
stay at your healthiest. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and
Prevention) recommends two and one-half hours of moderate-intensity
exercise every week as well as one hour and fifteen minutes of
high-intensity aerobic exercise.
So, you should exercise regularly and get enough sunlight to boost your immune system and increase your overall health.
Eat Whole Plant Foods
Today’s processed diet is a major cause of inflammation in the body.
Our ancestors ate more raw fruits and vegetables and doctors have proven
this is a healthier diet for your immune system (as well as other
systems in your body).
Whole plant foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that strengthen your immune system.
Registered dietician Julia Zumpano, RD, LD, had this to say about
eating your fruits and vegetables: “Try to eat a wide variety of foods
and aim to eat fruit and vegetables from every color of the rainbow.”
Eating a colorful diet is not only artistically pleasing, but fresh
fruits and veggies are far better for you than processed foods and
supplements.
Protein is also needed for immune health. Amino acids help build and
maintain immune cells and a low-protein diet may reduce your body’s
ability to fight off infection.
In a 2013 study, mice with a diet of only 2% protein were more
severely affected by flu than mice who ate a normal (18% protein) diet.
There are three main vitamins needed by your immune system: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin E.
Vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins needed by your immune
system. It’s important for you to get plenty of natural Vitamin C from
your diet because your body doesn’t store that vitamin.
Anything you don’t use is flushed from the body by your kidneys.
The good news is that you can easily get enough Vitamin C from food
without spending money on supplements. Fruits and vegetables rich in
Vitamin C include citrus fruits (and their juice), strawberries, bell
peppers, broccoli, kale, and spinach.
Another immune system-boosting vitamin is B6 or pyridoxine. It’s a
water-soluble vitamin that isn’t made in your body, so you need to eat
the right foods to get enough for your immune system.
Natural sources of B6 include chicken or turkey and cold-water fish
like salmon or tuna. You can also get Vitamin B6 from green vegetables
and chickpeas (the main ingredient in hummus). So even if you’re vegan
you can get plenty of B6 to strengthen your immune system.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is a powerful antioxidant.
It’s found in nuts, seeds, and spinach. You do need to be more careful
with Vitamin E because, since it’s stored in your fat, can actually
build up in your body to dangerous levels.
Never take Vitamin E supplements unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.
If you’re older or feeling particularly tired, you might also have
your doctor check your Vitamin D levels. Most people get enough Vitamin D
from simply going outside, where sunlight stimulates your body to make
the vitamin.
However, if your doctor says you need more, taking 400 IU daily has
been shown to increase disease-fighting cells like T-cells. Foods that
contain Vitamin D include fatty fish like tuna, mackerel, and salmon,
beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks.
Additional nutrients your immune system needs are zinc, folate, iron,
and selenium according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Getting these from your food is better than using supplements, but
you do need each of them to support your immune system. Eating more
whole plant foods can really improve your immune system.
Eat Healthy Fats
“80% of your immune system is found in your gut,” says Yufang Lin,
MD, of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, “so
when it’s healthy, we tend to be able to fight off infections faster and
better. When it’s not, our immune system is weaker and more susceptible
to fighting off infection.”
Healthy fats are those with anti-inflammatory properties, like the
ones found in olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon. These may
boost your body’s immune response by lowering inflammation.
Inflammation is a natural response to stress or injury, but chronic
inflammation, such as can be caused by a high-fat, highly-processed
diet, can suppress your immune system’s responses.
Olive oil has been scientifically linked to a lower risk of type 2
diabetes and heart disease. It’s highly anti-inflammatory and may help
your body fight off dangerous viruses and bacteria. Omega-3 fatty acids,
like the ones found in cold-water fish (like salmon) and chia seeds,
have also been shown to fight inflammation and support your immune
system.
In general, Dr. Lin recommends people focus on a Mediterranean style
of eating. That means a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains,
and healthy fats. “This eating pattern is high in nutrients such as
Vitamin C, zinc, and other antioxidants shown to help reduce
inflammation and fight infection,” she explains.
Adults between 65 and 70 years old who followed a Mediterranean diet
showed small increases in disease-fighting cells (such as T-cells)
according to a 2018 study published in Frontiers in Physiology.
Healthy fats can help stimulate your immune system and boost your body’s response to disease or infection.
Eat Probiotic-Rich Foods
Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, and natto are
rich in helpful bacteria called probiotics. These are the same bacteria
that live in your gut and help your digestive system work properly.
Gut health and immunity are closely interrelated. Research has
suggested that a healthy gut bacteria population can help your immune
system tell the difference between healthy body cells and harmful
invaders.
In one study, children who drank just 2.4 ounces (70 ml) of fermented
milk daily had around 20% fewer childhood infectious diseases compared
with the control group who didn’t drink probiotics. If you don’t
regularly eat fermented foods, a probiotic supplement may be a good
idea.
In another study of people infected with rhinovirus, those who took a
supplement of the bacterium Bifidobacterium animalis had a stronger
immune system response and lower levels of the virus in their nasal
mucus than the control group did.
A typical daily dose of probiotics is between 1 and 10 billion CFUs
(colony-forming units) daily. The key is to take these probiotic
supplements or foods consistently to maintain a healthy gut and support
your immune system.
It’s best to eat probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or sauerkraut, but
if you can’t include those in your regular diet, you should consider
supplements to improve your immune response.
Limit Sugar Intake
The latest research states that added sugars and processed foods can
contribute significantly to obesity, which can in turn reduce your
immune system response.
One study of around 1,000 people found that obese people who got
their yearly flu shot were twice as likely to still get the flu
afterward than non-obese people who got their vaccine.
Cutting your sugar and processed food intake can lower inflammation.
It also aids in weight loss, of course, and reduce your risk of
developing conditions like heart disease or type 2 diabetes.
And since all three conditions – obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
– are known to weaken your immune system, “curbing your sugar intake is
an important part of an immune-boosting diet,” according to Healthline.
Try to limit your sugar intake to 5% or less of your total daily
caloric intake. If you’re on a 2,000 calorie a day diet, for example,
you should get less than two tablespoonful’s (25 grams) of sugar in one
day.
Reducing your sugar and processed foods can not only help you lose weight but can improve your immune system.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is when your body doesn’t get enough water. It can reduce
your physical performance, mood, focus, digestion, and heart and kidney
function. These can also lower your resistance to disease.
Your first hint that you may not be getting enough water is a common
feeling – thirst. You may also get a headache. You should be drinking
enough fluid to create a pale-yellow urine.
Water is best because it doesn’t have any added calories. Try to
avoid too many sweetened drinks like fruit juice, sweet tea, or sodas.
While those can help hydrate you, the added sugar can reduce your
immune response and negate the positive effects of drinking enough
fluid.
Staying hydrated can boost your immune health. Water helps your body
make lymph, which carries immune system cells like white blood cells.
Try eating hydrating foods like cucumbers, melon, or celery.
Also, try to avoid overdoing diuretic or water-reducing substances like caffeine.
As a general guideline, you should drink whenever you’re thirsty and
continue drinking until your body no longer signals it needs liquid. You
may need more fluid if you exercise, work outside, or live in a hot
climate.
Remember that as you age, your body is less able to signal its needs
for liquid, so older people are less likely to drink enough. If you’re
over 55, you should make sure you drink enough even if you don’t feel
particularly thirsty.
Although hydrating doesn’t have a direct effect on your immune
system, it’s important to your overall health and thus, important to
your immune system.
Reduce Stress
There’s a strong link between your immune system and your mental health. Stress and anxiety make poor germ fighters.
Studies have shown that just having anxious thoughts can lower your immune response in as little as half an hour.
Constant stress makes it even harder to fight off viruses and
bacteria. Stress makes your body produce cytokines, molecules that
trigger inflammation that can reduce your immune response.
“When you’re under chronic stress or anxiety,” says Dr. Mark Moyad,
“your body produces stress hormones that suppress your immune system.”
Research at Carnegie Mellon University found that if you’re stressed, you’re more likely to come down with the common cold.
In one study, healthy adults were exposed to the cold virus, then
quarantined for five days and monitored. Those who reported stress were
twice as likely to get sick.
“In addition,” Dr. Yufang Lin says, “People who are stressed are less
likely to pay attention to other healthy habits, like eating right and
getting enough sleep, which can affect immunity.”
There is also evidence that sorrow if it lasts a long time, can lower
your body’s immunity. This effect can last for up to six months – and
can go on even longer if your grief is deep or doesn’t ease.
Talk to a doctor or therapist if you suffer from anxiety or grief
that doesn’t seem to be letting up in a reasonable time period.
Although you can’t avoid stress or sorrow, you can use strategies to
manage it better. A 2012 study in Annals of Internal Medicine found that
adults who either had a daily exercise routine or performed mindfulness
meditation were less likely to get sick with a respiratory infection –
or that, if they did get sick, missed fewer days at work.
Exercise increases the release of endorphins, hormones that reduce
stress, and create feelings of pleasure. This makes it a great way to
fight off stress. Dr. Lin says, “Since stress negatively impacts our
immune system, this is another way exercise can improve immune response.
Mindfulness is a way of focusing your thoughts on the here-and-now
instead of worrying about the future or stressing over the past.
Stress can negatively affect your immune system but managing that stress can moderate or negate that effect.
Regular exercise helps, as does mindfulness meditation that focuses
your thoughts on what’s going on immediately around you instead of
letting you keep worrying.
Quit Smoking
Smoking damages your lungs, which are two of the main gateways into
your body. Nicotine and marijuana both decrease your lungs’ ability to
fight off infection and both increase inflammation. And yes, vaping
still counts as smoking if you’re talking about your immune system.
“Chemicals released by cigarette smoke – carbon monoxide, nicotine,
nitrogen oxides, and cadmium – can interfere with the growth and
function of immune cells like T-cells, cytokines, and B-cells,” per a
2016 review in Oncotarget. Smoking also makes infections worse,
especially if they’re in the lungs (like pneumonia, flu, and
tuberculosis).
And overdoing the booze even once can slow your body’s ability to
fight off germs for a full 24 hours. Over time, drinking too much can
damage your body’s ability to repair the damage. This is why people who
drink are more prone to illnesses like liver disease, pneumonia,
tuberculosis, and certain cancers. If you’re going to indulge, stick to
one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. Moderation in
all things.
Smoking and drinking too much are harmful in many ways. One of the things you may not have considered is your immune system.
There is a multitude of ways to stop smoking and drinking. If you’re
having difficulty, see your doctor for some expert help to get yourself
healthy again.
Conclusion
Your immune system is an amazing part of your body. It recognizes
germs like viruses, bacteria, and fungi and fights them off. It also
neutralizes harmful substances and fights disease-causing changes in the
body.
“Think of the immune system as an orchestra,” says Lauren Bedosky for
Everyday Health. “For the best performance, you want every instrument
and every musician in the orchestra to perform at its best.”
You don’t need one musician suddenly playing double speed or one
instrument blaring out at top volume. The same goes for your immune
system.
There are many things you can do to boost your immune system and help
your body fight off disease. Some of these you’ve heard all your life:
exercise regularly, stop smoking and drinking, get enough sleep, and
manage your stress. One additional method you’re probably already doing
is to keep your chronic conditions under control.
“Chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, and diabetes can
affect the immune system and increase your risk of infection,” says
Bedosky.
A 2019 study in Current Diabetes Review found that people with type 2
diabetes who don’t keep their blood glucose levels under control may
create a chronic, low-grade inflammatory response that weakens their
immune systems.
“If you manage your chronic conditions better,” says Dr. Lin, “you’ll
free up more reserves to help your body fight off infection.” So, stay
on top of your chronic conditions – take your medications, keep your
doctor visits, and keep up any healthy habits that keep that condition
at bay. “Your immune system will thank you,” says Bedosky.
I am passionate about health, nutrition, success, and
surpassing oneself. I think that each of us has talents that beg to be
revealed. I am also passionate about what makes the difference between
successful people and everyone else. I discovered personal development
early in my studies and it was a revelation for me. I have been inspired
by some people and I think it is my duty to be able to inspire others
to try to make them live their lives to the fullest of their potential.
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