Well, it was bound to happen. I work in a place with tons of kids and adults coming in and out of my office on a daily basis. It seems like as soon as the kiddos headed back to school, I was having people sniffling and sneezing on my couch. Unfortunately, this week, I think I will be the one blowing my nose. On Saturday morning I woke up with a cold-ugh! The aches and pains, sore throat and sniffles are making me wish I had paid more attention to the following immunity boosters. Here are some ideas to get you through the cold season kleenex free.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands as often as possible, particularly after being in places filled with people like malls, gyms, grocery stores or office buildings.
- Get plenty of sleep. Sleep is the place where your body restores and replenishes itself. Don’t skimp on this important daily health giving event.
- Eat probiotic foods: It is thought that upwards of 80% of your immune system is found in your gut. There are trillions of beneficial bacteria in your digestive system that fight disease and absorb nutrients. Keeping this buggy population healthy and strong is one of the most effective defense mechanisms against colds and flu. Eating foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha or other fermented vegetables will increase those beneficial bacteria.
- Eat mushrooms: All mushrooms contain beta glucans which research has shown to strengthen the immune system.
- Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables: Eating a diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables gives your immune system the wide array of vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy and strong.
Photo from flickr.
