The flu season is finally here. And although things are slowly starting to get back to normal, we still need to protect ourselves. Not only against COVID, 19 but also against many other seasonal diseases, bacteria and viruses. So, today you’ll learn how to protect your body with natural ingredients to keep you safe during this season.
From a holistic perspective, we know that our bodies are incredibly complex and interconnected systems. If you easily get sick or usually feel tired, something else is going on that you’re probably ignoring. The main reason people get sick is their immune systems. Naturally, the best way to prevent getting sick is by boosting your immunity, which keeps you safe and guards you against harmful bacteria and viruses.
When you have a strong immunity, you’re more likely not to get sick. And if you do, it won’t be as bad. However, plenty of drugs today that claim to boost your immune system. But, we know nothing beats natural alternatives. And ideally, with the proper nutrients, we wouldn’t need to supplement.
I’m a terrain theory girl through and through, and you’ll see why. In the 1800s, Louis Pasteur spread the germ theory, suggesting that germs cause most diseases, paving the way for the abuse of antibiotics. And while these microorganisms are to blame, there’s also a considerable element nobody is talking about: The terrain.
Claude Bernard introduced the notion that the ‘terrain’ of the human body was more important than the ‘pathogens’ attacking it. This means that when exposed to these pathogens, we become ill if our defences are weakened. And it explains why some people get sick while others don’t when exposed to the same pathogens.
Now, thanks to modern science, we know that both theories are valid. Yet, there’s little we can do about the pathogens other than keeping our environment clean. And if we’ve learned anything from this pandemic, the most powerful thing we can do is take care of our “terrain” so we can become healthy and strong.
Here are my top 6 tips to boost your immunity:
#1 Load up on Vitamin C
Vitamin C is not just a potent antioxidant. It is also essential for our immune system, as it helps reduce the duration and severity of a common cold. Studies show Vitamin C promotes the function of white blood cells that help fight infection by improving the response of our immune cells.
#2 Try Quercetin
Quercetin is a molecule strong antioxidant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and with immune-boosting properties. According to experts, Quercetin is found primarily in purple fruits and vegetables, with 10 to 50 milligrams per 100 grams of Quercetin. But it can also be found in capers, broccoli, red onions, citrus or chicory. Due to its antiviral properties, consuming foods high in Quercetin has been shown to help prevent viral diseases and improve the immune system.
#3 Include more Zinc into your diet
Zinc is an essential mineral for numerous biological processes, including susceptibility to infections and the inflammatory response. Research has shown that Zinc contains antioxidants that protect the cells against reactive oxygen and bacterial toxins, resulting in a powerful anti-inflammatory effect.
Animal proteins are a fantastic source of Zinc, especially beef, pork, and lamb. However, other proteins, like chicken, fish, dairy and eggs, are also good sources of Zinc. While non-animal sources of Zinc include nuts, whole grains, legumes, seeds, and yeast.
#4 Don’t shy away from Salt inhaling
Halotherapy, or salt therapy, is usually practised with salt pipes and is an excellent alternative treatment to ease respiratory conditions like allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. When we inhale salt particles, these fall on the airway linings, drawing water into the airway, which helps thin the mucus and makes it easier to decongest the nose.
#5 Give Neti pot a try!
Whether you end up catching a cold, have an allergy, or want to keep your airways clear, Neti pot is always an excellent choice to cleanse your sinuses. So, don’t shy away and give it a go! But always make sure to follow the instructions and use distilled water.
#6 Don’t forget good old vitamin D
We’ve always been told to get some sunshine to prevent diseases, but ever wondered why? When the sun rays touch your skin, they convert cholesterol in the skin into vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a key role in our immunity. Our immune cells contain vitamin D receptors to perform several essential tasks, like regulating calcium and phosphate to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
Vitamin D deficiency may lead to weaker bones and greater susceptibility to acute respiratory infections. To help your body makes vitamin D, other than supplements, make sure to consume foods high in vitamin D, like milk, cereals, juices, eggs, meat, and fish.