Head Back to School With a Strong Immune System

A guest post by Rebekah of My MSPI Baby

It’s that time of year again, kids and teachers are either already back at school or will be shortly. That means your family is going to be exposed to all sort of germy goodness in the weeks to come.

I don’t know about you, but keeping my family as healthy as possible is definitely at the top of my back to school list…even if it might not be printed on that lengthy list of supplies we all get from the kiddo’s schools!

There are many ways that you can help your kids and yourself to support strong immune systems. Here are some of my personal favorites, and many that we use in our house on a daily basis.

1. Wash hands frequently…and no just for two seconds, but at least 20 seconds is best. I know that this can be really difficult with kids, but encourage them to do their best. We also choose to use either Thieves Foaming Handsoap or homemade soap that I make using Castile Liquid Soap and Thieves essential oil.
2. Keep a hand sanitizer in backpacks, lockers, cars…wherever you can’t readily access soap and water to wash your hands. I’m kind of crazy about Thieves waterless hand purifier and keep multiple bottles tucked away, especially for when the kids get in the car after school, at sporting events, or are about to grab a snack.
3. Make sure both you and the kids get enough sleep, for adults that 7 to 9 hours and for school age children it can be anywhere from 9-11 hours or more. Sleep is definitely a precious commodity that we value deeply in our house, especially since our youngest is still getting up during the night. One of the ways that we help to support healthy sleep patterns is by diffusing essential oils at night. One of our favorite combinations is Lavender and Cedarwood.
4. Eat a balanced diet which is low in sugar and high in fruits and vegetables, especially those that that are rich in Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and zinc. Even though I’ve been know to have a black thumb, it’s gradually greening up over the years and our garden is getting more and more bountiful. I’m so grateful for all the fresh veggies, rich in nutrients when sending the kids back to school…plus I’m even able to freeze some to stretch out that goodness throughout the next few months, yay!
5. Consider taking supplements which support a healthy immune system. One of our absolute favorites is Inner Defense…so many health filled benefits in one little capsule. Plus it even creates an internal environment which isn’t friendly for yeast and fungus, can anyone say BONUS?!
6. Laugh, no seriously it’s really good for you! Not only can it help reduce stress hormones it can also boost a type of white blood cell that fights infection. Moms, you know with little ones around there is never a shortage of things to laugh at. Now you have even more of a reason to now sweat the small stuff and to choose to laugh instead. 
7. Exercise. I know I know, this one isn’t always the easiest, but it really can make a big difference! Even if it means just chasing the little ones around at the park…if you can get that blood flowing a little quicker for 30 minutes a day not only will your immune system thank you, but chances are you might just sleep a little better too.

What are some of your tried and true ways of keeping your immune system healthy and strong? Make sure to share below in the comments section as I would love to hear about what’s working for you!

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

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Rebekah is foremost a Christian, wife, and mom to 3 amazing kids who range in age from 8 months to 14 years. She is a lover of all things healthy, especially for sensitive families. Swing on by her blog to find information on MSPI (Milk Soy Protein Sensitivity), allergy free recipes, tips for a chemical free home, and plenty of deals to keep your budget healthy too. - www.MyMSPIBaby.com

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