by Judith Windover

Created on: April 03, 2009

Natural Immunity
Research tells us that regular moderate exercise is not only good for our muscles and hearts, but also for our immune systems. However, whenever you work out strenuously, cortisol and adrenaline are released into the blood stream, raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels and suppress the immune system. Prolonged periods of stress induce chronic cortisol release which can cause suppression of the immune system.

More than 90 minutes of high-intensity endurance exercise can make athletes susceptible to illness for up to 72 hours after the exercise session. Consequently, you are most susceptible to contracting an illness due to incomplete immune protection in the hours following a hard workout. This is why some body builders that train often and hard suffer from respiratory tract infections.

Symptoms of over training include increased resting heart rate and slower recovery heart rate. However, more visible indications include chronic sore muscles, fatigue and lack of energy, irritability, and a general heaviness to the body. Muscles should never be exercised when they are sore. Soreness of muscles indicate the need for rest and repair.

To help your immune system and your muscles recover quickly to the stress of intense exercise rest, refuel, rehydrate, and consume natural supplements daily. The following drink is best consumed pre-workout for long lasting energy, vitality, strength and power.

Pre-Workout Power:
Alfalfa, spirulina, beet root powder, wheat grass, barley grass, bromelain, bee pollen, and slippery elm.

Mix all ingredients in a blender with your favorite juice. Add ice or frozen fruits and berries.

Nature is abundant in its supply of natural supplements that can help keep your immune system healthy, build and repair damaged muscle tissue, build and oxygenate your blood, and increase energy. Plants can be consumed fresh or dried as teas, tinctures, powder or pills. Include several or all of the following plants every day.

Alfalfa - known as The Father of All Foods alfalfa is an immune system stimulant; promotes normal blood clotting; aids in the assimilation of protein, fats, and carbohydrates; alkalizes and detoxifies the body; contains eight essential amino acids, vitamins A, E, K, B, D, phosphorus, iron, potassium, chlorine, sodium, silicon, magnesium, and beta carotene; NOTE: not recommended for people with autoimmune disorders.

Astragalus - balances body fluids, which helps healthy cell production and toxin elimination; invigorates immune

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