Remedies To Help Fight Colds

Kids or no kids, it’s that time of year where we will undoubtfully catch something. Whether it’s a mild cold or flu, it’s never a fun time which is why I thought I would put together for you a list of things I take year-round and when I’ve caught something.

This past week I caught whatever Monty had and the worst part with the congestion and headache.

Now normally I would have raced for the DayQuil but this time, things were different.

 I have spent the last 5+ years making sure I build my immune system to not only prevent (as best I can) but lessen the severity and duration. By doing this, I have equipped my body to fight off bacteria more effectively and efficiently.

Approximately 80% of our immune system lay within our bellies which is why it’s crucial to fill them with foods that can help fight away pathogens. You gut is the key to a healthy immune system.

Focus Foods & Supplements

1.     Vitamin C –Antioxidant that help protect against free radicals. Now our bodies don’t actually produce this naturally but you can find this in foods like oranges, berries, broccoli, spinach, cabbage and peppers.  You can also find this in supplementation form and safely take 90-1000mg a day. This is a water soluble so you’ll pee out whatever your body doesn’t use. This can and should be used year round.

2.     Curcumin -Main component found in turmeric which is a anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This has been long used in the Asian medicines and been shown to neutralize radicals. There are a few kinds you can buy but I would encourage you look at Curcumin w/meriva.

3.     Manuka Honey – I don’t even know where to begin with this amazing superfood. It’s antifungal, antiseptic and has antibacterial properties that can benefit your body in more ways than I can think. I take a teaspoon on an empty belly every morning, but you can use this in teas, in foods or if you are feeling congested you can use it as a rinse.

4.     Ginger – Anti-inflammatory, supports digestion, helps reduce feelings of nausea. I cook with this, I make warm teas with it and sometimes I buy the ginger drops and chew on them. Super versatile and well researched.

5.     Vitamin D – if you live in a city like Vancouver where it rains most of the year, the likelihood that you are vitamin D deficient is high. While this is mostly used for bone health, studies have shown that is can help fight acute respiratory diseases

6.     Sleep – Lack of sleep hinders your immune system, so aim for 7-9 hours a night.

*** always consult with you physician before you take any supplementation – these are recommendations only**