The immune system helps us navigate safely

The immune system helps us navigate safely in our environment and avoid over- and under-reacting to foreign substances. My first suggestion to boost immune function in people living with HIV is to identify and treat underlying food and environmental sensitivities and limit immune taxing behaviors. Stress and sugar consumption have been clinically shown to depress immune function. This is exactly what we don't want to have happen in people living with HIV. Many relaxation techniques exist to help us cope with life issues and lessen the physiological response in the body; yoga, meditation, exercise, support groups, counseling and prayer can all be helpful. Local resources exist to help you find the closest and best group for you. In the meantime, for a quick "stress break," I recommend the 4/8 Time-out. It's easy to do, free and can help diffuse a stressful moment in about a minute.