We all know the right things to do to keep healthy and unfortunately, we tend to push them to the side when it comes to protecting ourselves.

In a recent article that I just read on improving our immunity levels, their advice sounded like the same advice that my mother used to share over the 70 years that I know her. To quote the Buck Institute, that advice includes:

• “Nutrition: Fruits and vegetables have thousands of active compounds that help support immune strength. Diets high in fruits and vegetables, and low in simple carbohydrates, can also help retain insulin sensitivity and promote metabolic health. In particular:

– leafy greens contain iron, folate, and Vitamin C

– carrots and sweet potatoes are high in Vitamin A

– bell peppers and citrus are very high in Vitamin C

– nuts, lentils, and seeds (as well as meat and oysters) are a good source of zinc, which helps support immune function

• Exercise: One small study found that older adults who exercised vigorously had immune systems similar to those of much younger adults.
• Sleep: This might be hard for many of us right now. Stress and disrupted routines can make it hard to relax at night, but it’s worth trying some advice from the Mayo Clinic to get better sleep. New data is finding that irregular sleep patterns are associated with increased risk of metabolic disorders and obesity (at least in worms). And remember, a well-rested body supports a well-rested immune system.”

As we read and hear more discussions about personal accountability, it is likely only a matter of time before insurers link health insurance premiums to how well we take care of our own bodies.

Is 2024 not the year for you to wake up and heed the advice of your parents and grandparents to eat properly, get exercise, and get plenty of sleep? Start today.