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What can I do to boost my immune system?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 11/24/2007 1:17 AM (GMT 0)
I am way tired of all the sinus and ear infections. Is there anything I can do to boost my immune system? I am very diligent about handwashing and sanitizing. I'm not sure what else to do. Thanks!
Posted 11/24/2007 1:37 AM (GMT 0)
I wish I had some answers for you Tabitha.................here's a big hug from me to you!!!!!!!!
Posted 11/24/2007 3:56 PM (GMT 0)
I agree and can't wait to hear the feedback. I know I don't wash and sanitize like I should, so I'm starting NOW. I do know that I eat healthier now than I did 6 months ago, including a multi-vitamin and lots of water. I need to increase exercise, too, as studies I've read show that exercise can help strengthen the immune system (mayoclinic.com--look up immune system). I am going to do the handwashing thing more vigorously-20 seconds and take my Lysol into the bathroom at work every time and spray the place down and also in my office--keypad, door knobs, light switches, desk, etc. AFter coughing or sneezing, I am using hand sanitizer and NO touching my nose, eyes or mouth! Two of my staff have had bad colds/bronchitis/sinus junk in the past several weeks and now I do, too. I will also wear a mask, if need be! Our health is worth it!!
Posted 11/24/2007 4:40 PM (GMT 0)
I know that for some UCers they may have fungal or bacterial causes for their UC, but by the way I have responded to medication I am convinced that for me it is an auto-immune disorder.
And when I went on a regime recommended by a researcher of various supplements etc. to rebuild and strengthen my immune system I got worse and was in A LOT of pain from my guts.
I guess the thing to do is try the common routes of preventing colds -vitamin C, tea, maybe some echinacea.
Good Luck!
James
Posted 11/24/2007 5:40 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, I have been trying food supplements, ie. protein bars, tea, something like ensure but not, can't think of the name, sorry..i also may take a lot of allergy pills and sinus medication. Not at all sure it helps but so far so good.
Posted 11/24/2007 5:56 PM (GMT 0)
If you're on immunosuppresant drugs, you're going to be more susceptible. I don't think you can suppress and strengthen at the same time. As far as I know, the best you can do is what you're already doing... wash hands frequently, keep hands away from your face and avoid being around people who are obviously sick. You might look into that "Airborne" supplement, although I don't know how effective it would be while you're on immunosuppresants. You could ask your doc about it.

http://www.airbornehealth.com/
Posted 11/25/2007 6:08 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Tabitha. I have found the best way to boost my immune system is:

dont smoke.
dont drink alcohol.
eat 6 small meals a day
eat protein with medium carbs, low fat every meal
eat omega 3 fats each day
drink 5 bottles of water each day
exercise at least 3 times a week (preferable 5-6)
get enough sleep (i dont sleep much, but i nap off and on when i can)
stay positive
stretch

this is my lifestyle, derailed at times from stress or flares, but i constantly get back on the healthy roller coaster when life kicks me off. :) Its a lot of work at times, but it keeps me feeling better then when i dont follow this regime. I rarely get sick actually (with the exception of my uc of course), but i do get sore from the exercise because i probably push it harder then i should at times.

Hope you get better! :)
Posted 11/26/2007 12:22 AM (GMT 0)
Be proactive and eat lots of veggies and fruits with good minerals and vitamins, and don't eat crap. Ditto Bob. I take MG beta-glucan. Haven't had a sniffle since, and I'm a elementary school teacher. Could be a coincidence, but who knows....  :)
Posted 11/26/2007 12:36 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks guys! I generally live a healthy lifestyle....except for the occasional glass of wine I don't really drink and I quit smoking years ago. I exercise 4 times a week. I appreciate all the help!!
Posted 11/26/2007 12:44 AM (GMT 0)
I think cranberry juice is supposed to help. I have been drinking it since I was at the height of my flare and anemic and barely able to stand, it really helped me I think and I drink 8oz a day. Sometimes I make a smoothie w/yogurt and fruit. Sometimes, I dilute it w/water to make my water more tasty. I like the cran/rasp and cran/grape. They also have potassium fortified juice too. HTH!
Posted 11/26/2007 12:49 AM (GMT 0)
That sounds yummy. I get tired of plain ole water.
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