An Athlete's Guide to the Immune System

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Smooth Smoothies

Here are a couple of powerful smoothies that will help to boost your immune system! (No worries, I left out the oysters!)

Banana Booster

  • 1 banana (peel and freeze in Ziploc, acts as your ice and makes it nice and thick!)
  • 1 cup of soymilk (add water for added fluid)
  • 1/4 cantaloupe, chopped
  • 1 cup of strawberries
  • 1 tbsp Tahini (sesame seed paste)
  • 1 tbsp. flax oil
  • Sprinkle with wheat germ once served in glass

Strong Like Bull Smoothie

  • 2 cups Watermelon
  • 1 cup strawberries
  • 1 cup unsweetened rice milk (add water if required)
  • 1/2 cup 100 percent fresh Orange Juice or Pineapple juice
  • 1 scoop of organic whey protein
  • Ice

More: 4 Delicious Recovery Smoothies

Healthy Habits

Other tips to keep in mind to support a stronger immune system include:

  • Reducing stress (try some 10 minute meditation when you feel overwhelmed; no phone, no computer, no distractions and some deep FULL diaphragm breathing)
  • Washing your hands often when around others or in public places
  • Sleeping 7-9 hours a day. Sleep is KING. Don't underestimate it. (Yes I just gave you permission to sleep in...your spouse can call me to complain.)
  • Reducing toxins and anti-nutrients such as trans fats and artificial sweeteners and replacing them with naturally sweet fresh fruit and essential oils or raw nuts and seeds.
  • Add REST to your training schedule. Even your super human body needs to recover.

More: How Yoga Can Boost Your Immune System

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