Better your odds

from Healthy & Fit Magazine May 2020

Gardening This Spring?

Boosting your immune system could mean the difference

by Tom Matt

by Tom MattOne key in our new world is having the strongest immune system possible. On my radio program, I had a guest named Dr. George Bartzokis. He is a Psychiatrist and Neurologist at UCLA and a very early contributor to our program. “Doctor George,” as I called him, taught me the concept of better odds; how having the best odds in life, in regards to your health, could make or break your life.

Boy, do his words ring true today.

Better odds begin with a strong immune system. There are several ways to incrementally help yourself to a stronger foundation, however, I believe the lymphatic system is the mortar to our health’s foundation.

The lymphatic system is a web consisting of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins and waste materials. The central function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.

A robust and active lymphatic system is the key to a strong immune response to invading infections and viruses.

An alkaline environment in the body is the most ideal for the drainage of the lymphatic system. When we experience stress, cortisol (a stress-fighting hormone) is released, causing metabolic acidosis. Cortisol’s acidic nature can cause a breakdown of lymphoid material, suppressing our immune function, reducing the circulation of protective antibodies and promoting fat gain.

The lymphatic system plays an integral role in the immune functions of the body. It is the first line of defense against disease. A key contributor to the performance of the lymphatic system is movement.

Unlike the circulatory system that has the heart as a pump, the lymphatic system requires movement to circulate the lymph fluid throughout the body. Maintaining fluid transport in the lymph vessels requires activity and movement from us. Poor lymph circulation ends in inflammation or disease, so it is vital to make lifestyle changes to keep the lymph system healthy.

Exercise is the answer. Better odds, baby! Try these: Exercise regularly Walk Jumping (I love jump rope) Deep breathing Water, water, water Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and cooking meats thoroughly.

Tom Matt is the host of the “Tom Matt Show,” a radio talk show syndicated in Michigan on the Michigan Talk Network. He can be heard locally Saturday mornings on the ‘Big Talker’ WJIM 1240 AM. For more info please visit www.boomersrock.us