As the weather cools, the days get shorter, and we move indoors, our immune system needs a little extra TLC.
These handy tips will help you boost your immunity and hedge your bets.
DO
Eat enough quality protein. Make sure to get protein at a minimum of two meals a day (breakfast and lunch are best). Think chicken soup!
Eat warm food. Forget salads - get your veggies with soup.
Eat lots of fresh garlic, and use warming herbs such as cinnamon, cayenne, and fresh ginger liberally. Curry is also a fantastic fall and winter choice.
Get your Vitamin D. This can be taken as a supplement on its own, or in a quality fish oil (our grandparents knew what they were doing when taking cod liver oil in winter). Aim for 2000 IU daily, taken at breakfast.
Keep well-hydrated with room temperature water and freshly squeezed lemon. Don’t forget the oh-so-great herbal teas.
Get enough sleep. As the days shorten, hibernation season sets in; don't fight it!
DON’T
Eat a lot of simple carbohydrates or sugary snacks (simple carbs are converted to glucose as soon as you ingest them). Sugar depresses the immune system like nothing else.
Drink cold bevvies. This is not the time for iced drinks, or water coolers that pump out freezing water. Simply unplug the cooler.
Drink too much coffee. Adrenaline may be great for fight & flight (or the modern version – simply getting through your day). However, it works in complete opposition to rest and repair.
Get stressed out. If you’re constantly on overdrive, your immune system won’t stand a chance!
All Natural Fixes
♥ For congestion, try a healing steam: Pour boiling water into a bowl, add 5 drops tea tree or eucalyptus oil to water, cover head and bowl with a towel to trap steam, and inhale deeply.
♥ For chest colds, make a mustard plaster: 3 tablespoons flour, 3 tablespoons dry mustard, mix with water to make a paste. Lie on your back and place a thin, damp cloth on your chest, cover cloth with mustard plaster. Add a layer of saran wrap and a blanket on top, and rest for 15 minutes. Plaster can be saved and used up to four times daily.
♥ For acute infections, take a few drops of oil of oregano in water (not to be taken when pregnant or breastfeeding).
♥ Probiotics boost your digestive immunity, which affects your overall immunity. Consider taking a daily supplement of live bacteria for long-term health.
