Friday, December 5, 2014

Immunity Boosting

Cold and Flu Season.  It has to be the 'least wonderful' time of the year!  It is an annoyance and can be down right nasty.




There is a lot of debate surrounding the flu vaccine.  Should you or should you not get a flu shot?  Each decision is a personal one. Neither decision is right or wrong, each person must do what's right for them and their family.  Personally, my family and I choose not to get the flu shot.  Have we ever had the flu?  Yes.  Does this change our minds about our decision?  No.  It's just not what's right for our family.  Instead we nourish ourselves with nutritious food, lots of water and comforts such as rest when needed and exercise when ready.



 Here are just a few tips on ways you can boost your immune system daily and especially during the cold and flu season.




* Drinking lots of water.  Our bodies are made primarily of water.  When we are sick it is very easy for us to become dehydrated; depleting ourselves of proper hydration.  Electrolyte drinks are loaded with sugar; as well as some electrolytes our bodies lose during illness.  Your best defense is drinking fresh water.  I also enjoy hot water with lemon daily before drinking anything else when I wake up.
This tea is wonderful for a cold.


*Herbal tea


*Eating whole foods such as fruits and veggies.
*Exercise.  You may not be up for a long run or strenuous workout.  A walk in the fresh air and sunshine can help.  Listen to your body.


*Antioxidant rich smoothies.  Smoothies are very popular in our house; especially green ones!
This one is full of red berries, cherries, spinach and chia seeds to keep you healthy before illness and helps you recover after.


1 cup mixed frozen fruit: blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and cherries
1/2 cup plain, non-fat greek yogurt
2 large handfuls of spinach
1-2 tablespoons of Very Green  powder
tablespoon chia seeds
water - enough to keep the blender moving.
Blend