It’s July people; time for cosy sweaters, hot chocolate and cuddling under the covers … Yes! But, unfortunately cold and flu season is kicking into full gear with tell-tale coughs and sniffles all around you … yeah, no thanks!
We all know that colds and flu are caused by viruses. It’s all about superbugs and antibiotic resistance, right? Fact is that antibiotics kills only bacterial infections, not viruses. Yet, sadly, more than 53% of people with winter sniffles receive antibiotics!
Overall our immune system does a great job of defending us against disease-causing micro-organisms, but sometimes it fails. And yes, during the winter months there’s a greater chance of this happening. So, can we do anything to boost our immune system? Thankfully yes!
As part of our Fedhealth #FamilyTime, we would like to share a few all-natural ways to prepare your body for the fight against those nasty winter invaders:
Drink tea. Warm drinks … so good during the winter months! Have a steamy cup of green tea with honey. The steam will stimulate the hair follicles in your nose, getting rid of germs quicker. Bonus: Honey is an anti-inflammatory.
Protein is king. A low protein diet can slow down your immune system. So, up your protein this winter by starting off with eggs for breakfast!
Keep your office super clean. Make your own sanitizing spray to clean surfaces at the office. Mix purified water with essential oils in a spray bottle (try lavender, sage, tea tree or thyme) Take aim at doorknobs, phones, or anywhere that viruses are likely to linger. Don’t forget the hand sanitizer for your hands!
Use your own pen. Germs stick to surfaces, so use your own pen to sign documents. Use it at the OTM to type in your code!
Go for a massage. Stress triggers your body’s production of cortisol and adrenaline – hormones that interfere with immune response. A massage will relieve stress and improve circulation to improve immunity.
Go out for sushi. Research shows that the more social relationships you have, the less likely you are to get sick. So, go out with friends, order a salmon roll for immune-boosting omega – 3 fats and have pickled ginger on the side for its anti-viral properties.
Exercise. According to an Appalachian State University study, people who exercise 5 or more days a week spend 43% fewer days with upper respiratory infections.
Eat more garlic and onion; both natural antibiotics.
Vitamins, vitamins, vitamins. A no-brainer, right? Load up on fresh orange juice, strawberries, broccoli, peppers – all good sources of vitamin C.
Get enough Zzz. 7 to 8 hours of sleep will give your body a chance to rest, repair and keep that immune system strong.
Cut back on sweets. Your immune system stays depressed for several hours after you eat or drink sugar, lowering your resistance.
Get your “ohm” on. In a recent study, people who practised mindfulness meditation reduced the incidence, duration and severity of respiratory infections by as much as 50%.
Have sex. Studies showed that people who have sex once or twice a week have higher levels of immunoglobulin (IGA), a cold-fighting antibody.
Of course, the basis of a healthy immune system begins with a diet rich in whole foods. So, have the healthiest winter ever by adding some of these creative immune systems boosting ideas.
Source: www.rooirose.co.za, www.huffingtonpost.com, www.womanshealthmag.com, spoonuniversity.com, www.thealternativedaily.com, www.thejoint.com, www.prevention.com, www.nutralife.com.au, www.adwdiabetes.com, www.smallfootprintfamily.com, www.121dietician.com, www.health-e.org.za, www.goodhealth.co.nz
