Winter is here – that also means that cold and flu season is here.
If you’re a bit of a germaphobe you might be looking for simple ways to naturally boost my immune system.
We all know the obvious tips like regularly washing our hands and sneezing into our arm, but here are some other simple ways to naturally boost your immune system and help to avoid getting sick this winter.
10 WAYS TO NATURALLY BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
1) EAT AN ABUNDANCE OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
We all know that fruits and vegetables are essential for maintaining our health, but they also help to boost our immune system. Fruits and vegetables that are brightly coloured usually contain the highest amounts of immunity-building antioxidants
Here are some fruits and vegetables that boost your immune system.
-Spinach: They’re all packed with iron. Getting enough iron keeps you energized and active, since iron helps infuse your cells and tissues with oxygen. And you’ll also have a stronger immune system
-Broccoli: one of the best nutrients for immune function. Folate, also called vitamin B-9, is crucial for cell growth. That’s essential for immune health, since you’re constantly producing fresh new immune cells to replace older, damaged ones.
-Kale: They’re a great source of vitamin A (most have all your vitamin A needs in one serving), along with vitamin C and iron
-Berries: Blueberries are famous for their high Antioxidant content, but almost all berries are very healthy.
Antioxidants are substances that protect your cells against the effects of free radicals which are molecules produced when your body breaks down food, or is exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
Ashwaghanda: Also known as Indian ginseng, Ashwaghanda is a root used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine that is high in antioxidants.
It is used to fight cancer and diabetes, regulate the thyroid and adrenal glands, increase stamina, relieve stress, reduce inflammation, treat asthma, promote sexual health, and ease arthritis pain.
Check out this amazing Natural supplement packed with over 22 Superfoods!!2) TAKE ECHINACEA
Echinacea is great when it comes to fighting off colds. Taking it at the first signs of a cold usually knocks it out before it starts.
3) EAT MORE GARLIC
There was a Lady that lived to be 100 years old, and she swore that part of the reason for her health and longevity was that she ate a clove of raw garlic every day. Regardless of whether or not the garlic really was the reason for her long, healthy life, garlic does have properties that will boost your immune system and help you fight off colds and flu.
4) GET PLENTY OF SLEEP
Research has shown that sleep deprivation increases the risk of things like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, but it also has detrimental effects on your immune system which makes you more susceptible to illness. Make sure you get in between 7.5 – 9 hours of good-quality sleep every night.
Suffering from lack of sleep? You definitely need to try this!5) LOWER YOUR STRESS LEVELS
High stress levels can have catastrophic effects on your health and can lower your immune system, making you more susceptible to respiratory illnesses. Try taking a brisk walk outdoors, exercising, or taking a few minutes to meditate to help lower your stress levels.
6) USE OREGANO OIL
Oregano oil has antibacterial, antioxidant and antiviral properties, which are just the things you need to help fight off colds and flu. I find the best way to use oregano oil is to add a few drops to a bowl of hot water, drape a towel over your head, then put your face over the bowl and inhale the steam.
7) MAKE A HONEY AND LEMON DRINK
As a kid remember your Mum making you drink “the honey and lemon drink” whenever you complained of a sore throat? (Confession – sometimes I pretended to have a sore throat just so she would make me the drink – haha!)
Besides tasting delicious, the honey and lemon drink can ease the symptoms of a cold. You can also add some ginger and turmeric in there for extra antioxidant properties. To make the honey and a lemon drink, just stir some fresh lemon juice and a few tablespoons of honey into hot water.
8) DRINK TEA
Herbal tea can help to ease the symptoms of colds and flu, and they have the added bonus of helping you relax and distress. Peppermint, Ginger, and Cinnamon tea all have cold and flu-fighting properties.
9) SPEND TIME IN THE SUN
Studies have shown that vitamin D reduces the risk of colds and flu, and has natural antibiotic properties. However, many adults are lacking in this essential vitamin. The best way to get a dose of vitamin D? Sunshine! Spend some time outdoors in the sun and soak up the vitamin D goodness.
10) MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for building a healthy immune system – studies have shown that overweight people are often more susceptible to illness.
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