Fall is officially here, and it's time to think about making changes in
our diet and lifestyle to keep pace with the season. Part of that is
bolstering our immune system. There are so many simple ways to boost
immunity so that we won't get sick as fall moves blends into winter.
Try even a few of these tips to increase your ability to stay balanced, healthy and happy throughout the season.
1. Let supplements give you a boost!
It's a good idea to tune-up your supplement plan when the seasons
change. Quality supplements can be your best defense. Try Vitamin C
crystals along with a Green Food Complex, odorless garlic and EFA's
like Cod Liver Oil. Try even one of these and you will be guaranteed to
head into the season fortified.
2. Keep the sweetness, reduce the sugar.
If you do only one thing to boost your immune system, reduce "the white
stuff". You will see drastic results in your energy levels, weight,
mood and immunity when you eat less refined sugar. Keep the sweetness
with healthier alternatives such as agave nectar, stevia, or honey.
3. Fruits and veggies, especially mushrooms!
The nutritional content that you receive from raw fruits and veggies is
unparalleled. Dark-colored produce (berries, kale, broccoli) tends to
have the most immune-boosting nutrients. Also, shiitake and maitake
mushrooms increase the body's production of white blood cells, which
are part of the immune system.
4. Get Spicy! Cooking with
spices enhances digestion by making nutrients more easily available to
the body. Different spices also have specific immune-boosting
properties. Tumeric has an immune-modulating effect because it is
detoxifying. Cumin enhances digestion and black pepper increases vigor
by reaching deeper tissues. Try the Immunity Spice Mixture below!
5. Limit caffeine.
As enticing as that cup of joe sounds in the morning, caffeine robs
your body of minerals and vitamins, while also dehydrating you. If you
do drink coffee, make sure you add additional water per cup of coffee.
Adequate water will reduce headaches, cravings and fatigue.
6. Connect with Movement. Exercise improves health and happiness by releasing endorphins. Find a movement that inspires you and you are halfway there.
7. Nurture yourself.
Today's world is frenetic so make sure you take time for yourself,
doing whatever recharges you because this kind of thing feeds you
better than any food. Our bodies respond to our emotions - if you're
feeling overwhelmed and anxious, it can manifest as a sore throat or a
cold. Create a space within yourself and your living environment for
harmony, self-love and joy. When you're happy, you're far less likely
to get sick.
Posted on
Saturday, November 8, 2008
by Christa Orecchio