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By now you've heard about the swine flu outbreak. And you may be wondering if there's anything you can do to protect yourself and your family.

One of the most important things you can do to avoid catching any flu virus is to wash your hands frequently. If you're traveling, meeting people or spending time in public this is especially important. Never touch your mouth, nose or eyes without washing your hands first - that's how flu spreads.

You can't completely eliminate your risk of contracting the swine flu, but there are ways to boost your immune system so your body can better fight it (or any other flu virus) off.

10 Ways to Strengthen Your Immune System


1. Sleep. For your immune system to function at optimum capacity, you need to sleep at least 7-8 hours a night.

2. Exercise. Sweating it out will help boost your immune system and keep your body in fighting shape.

3. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins and keep your body functioning properly.

4. Eat your fruits and vegetables, especially disease-fighting blueberries and broccoli. It's crucial to get your vitamins and nutrients through immune-boosting fruits and vegetables.

5. Add lemons or lemon juice to your diet. Besides being packed full of Vitamin C - a natural immune booster - lemons help your body maintain a pH balance where healthy bacteria thrive but viruses like the flu do not. Drink lemon water or sprinkle lemon juice on salads or fish.

6. Get plenty of protein from lean meats. Protein is the building block for a healthy immune system.

7. Cut back on refined sugar. Reducing (or eliminating) the amount of sugar in your diet will strengthen your immune system, increase your energy levels and help you shed stubborn pounds.

8. Get plenty of fresh air. Take any opportunity to get outside and breathe some clean air. Indoor air is notorious for harboring other people's germs and irritants.

9. Cut back on coffee and alcohol. Excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption will send your immune system into the red zone. Drink green tea instead for a healthy energy and immune boost.

10. Relax and reduce stress. Listen to music, go for a walk, practice deep breathing techniques, take a power nap. Stress taxes your immune system and can interfere with healthy bodily functions.

If you know of other ways to strengthen your immunity, please leave a comment below.