5 Tips to Boost Your Immune System

Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose. No one likes to have a cold or flu, and these six tips could help build your immune system and keep the germs away.

1. Wash your hands - The best way to avoid getting sick is to avoid the germs. Make sure you wash your hands on a regular basis, especially if you're around others who are sick. After you wash your hands, thoroughly dry them because germs easily cling to wet skin.
    
2. Exercise - Ready to kick-start your immune system? Try to get 30 minutes of exercise a day. Exercise increases blood flow, including the blood cells that attack bacteria.
    
3. Sleep - On average adults get less than seven hours of sleep a night, but studies show adults need seven to eight hours of sleep to have a healthy immune system.
    
4. Lessen Stress - Did you know the hormones that are released during stress suppress your immune system? Take a breather and boost your immune system with meditation and deep breathing.
    
5. Don't bite your nails - Have a bad habit of biting your nails? You invite germs into your body every time you touch your mouth, nose or eyes. Imagine what happens when you bite your nails and give germs an all-access pass. Help fight the habit by putting on nail polish that will deter you from putting your fingers in your mouth.