It’s finally here my first blog post and since winter is upon us again I have decided to make my first post about how to stay protected this winter from colds and flu by boosting your immunity and taking some natural alternatives to over the counter pharmaceuticals. I don’t know about you guys, but I spend most of winter avoiding getting sick especially for the holiday season, lots of parties and events I don’t want to miss. These are some of the things that I use during winter to ensure a healthy immune system.
Astragalus
Astragalus is an adaptogen which helps to regulate body systems. It was first used as an energy and health tonic in Chinese medicine and thousands of years later it has still been proven effective at combating colds, flu and fatigue. This herb works by strengthening the immune system through boosting the immunological response.
Best taken: At the first signs of a cold
Β-glucans
Mainly found in fungi and yeast; polysaccharides can stimulate the body’s response and enhances its ability to defend itself. Reishi is one type of mushroom which can enhance your immune system amongst other things due to its adaptogenic abilities. Personally I take Reishi all year round not only for immunity but also for improving allergy and asthma symptoms.
Best taken: Before a cold as a general immune booster.
Elderberry
Elderberry is amazing to have in winter especially for coughs, colds and flu. It has been scientifically proven to deactivate the virus which in turn helps to reduce the severity and duration of colds. Certain compounds in elderberry such as quercetin and anthocyanins are antioxidants which can have antibacterial and antiviral actions. Elderberry also has an incredible nutrient profile; high in vitamin A, B and particularly vitamin C.
Best taken: During a cold.
Echinacea
Echinacea has 4 main actions: Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal and Anti-inflammatory. One benefit of this herb is that it can used to treat colds and flu due to its ability to stimulate the immune system. It is usually more effective to start taking echinacea at the first signs of catching a cold. Not only does it have the potential to reduce your chances of getting a cold, it can also reduce the duration of it. Since I discovered Echinacea around 2 years ago it has never failed me.
Best taken: At the first signs of a cold.
Manuka honey
There are two main active compounds in manuka honey. Hydrogen peroxide a great antiseptic, occurring naturally in manuka honey a well as Methylglyoxal; an antibiotic found in low concentrations in most honeys but is present in potent concentrations in manuka honey. Manuka honey is also considered a great antioxidant which can both prevent and protect the body from damage, keeping you stronger and healthier. This is a great food supplement to use throughout the year to boost your immunity and prevent illnesses. My recommendation is one spoonful a day.
Best taken: Before a cold as a general immune booster and a stronger concentration during a cold.
Probiotics
Probiotics are important for immunity. They are good bacteria which help to push out and out-compete the bad bacteria in the gut. Most of us have probiotics in foods and drinks everyday like kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut and other fermented products but for anyone who has a compromised immune system a probiotic is a great option; taking a probiotic could help support the system and its responses.
Best taken: Before a cold as a general immune booster.
Other things you can do to boost immunity
Consume a diet high in fruit and vegetables
Maintain a healthy weight
Sleep well; your body needs to be rested to make sure your health is protected
Reduce stress levels. If you are stressed, you won’t sleep well which will impact your body’s defence mechanisms.
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