We all know what's right around the corner - cold and flu season. Getting prepared before it hits is what this blog is all about. It would be nice to be able to get our kids to make drastic lifestyle changes in a matter of weeks, but we all know that is not a reality. So what can we do to reduce the likelihood of catching that classic cold or suffering from the foreboding flu? Here are our top four supplement choices for you and your children along with some simple food additions to get you ready for what's coming ahead.
Four Simple Supplements
1. Probiotics
If your gut is healthy, your brain and body will follow. Gut health has become a hot topic among physicians and health minded people. A whopping 70% of your immune system is housed in your GI tract. Populating it with good bacteria is a critical part of keeping your immune system on alert for any invaders. The easiest way to do this is by taking a probiotic. It is simple yet effective. We have found our patients prefer Orthobiotic powder and capsules. There are many other probiotics found in our store that are equally effective.
2. Vitamin, Mineral and Botanical Blend Viracid
Any nutrient deficit can affect the immune system's ability to respond to invaders. Taking immune enhancing nutrients and botanicals is like fuel for your immune system. Viracid’s synergistic formula significantly enhances immune cell function. A huge benefit to the supplement is it's ability to help soothe throat irritations and nasal secretions. Viracid contains a synergistic nutrient blend of zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, L-lysine and pantothenic acid.
3. Sambucus
Every fall, black elderberries reach their peak. The delicious flavor of this antioxidant rich syrup makes it very easy to take. For centuries the dark berries of European black elder have been traditionally taken as a winter remedy. Medical researchers have proven its efficacy in clinical trials. This is one fall immune booster we highly recommend.
4. Vitamin D3
Medical studies have demonstrated Vitamin D enhances immune function. When fall comes and the earth distances itself from the sun, absorbing vitamin D from sunshine becomes more challenging. With colder weather comes more indoor time, giving germs and bacteria a place to thrive.
Immune Boosting Fall Foods
When fall arrives, so does apple picking season. Eating apples gives your body the necessary fiber to fight inflammation. A recent study demonstrates the ability of soluble fiber, found in apples, other fruits and vegetables with the skin on, nuts and oats, strengthens the immune system.
Fresh or frozen raw fruits and vegetables are packed full of immune supportive antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamin C and other nutrients that all assist the immune system in fighting off invaders. Vitamin C is heat labile, meaning heat destroys its beneficial properties. Have you ever noticed that pasteurized juice always has ascorbic acid added to it in order to increase its vitamin C content? Making sure that you and your child get plenty of raw fruits and vegetables will get you well prepared for what's ahead.
Green smoothies, sliced apples and nut butter, berry yogurt parfaits and fresh veggie trays with hummus are just a few ideas. We make green smoothies in the morning to start off the day with an immune booster. Lots of salad greens with a little fresh lemon, some frozen fruit like pineapple and pitted dates or bananas with water is a tasty one.