It’s that time of year again. School is back in session, the days are growing shorter and the weather is getting colder. Often with the change in season comes the beginning of cold and flu season. Luckily, with a few tricks, I have been able to avoid getting sick with a toddler. Read on to learn how to stay healthy during cold and flu season.
Five ways I stay healthy with natural remedies:
1. Hand washing
2. Vitamins
3. Herbs
4. Probiotics
5. Bone broth
1. Scrub a dub dub
Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent spreading germs. It is one of the simplest but least utilized tasks, especially in school age children. When teaching your child, consider these steps.
Step 1- Wet hands with the warmest water they can take.
Step 2- Apply soap
Step 3- Lather from wrists to fingertips for 20 seconds- You could have them sing the ABC’s twice.
Step 4- Rinse and Dry
2. All vitamins are not created equal
Two of my favorite vitamins to take are vitamin C and vitamin D.
Vitamin C IS SPANISH FOR VITAMIN YES!
I won’t get too technical, but Vitamin C helps support both the innate and adaptive immune functions. My favorite way to take vitamin C is with Sufficient C lemon peach drink.
WE ALL NEED THE D
Did you know nearly 42% of Americans have chronically low vitamin D levels? With shorter and colder winter days coming, most people are not spending enough time outside in the sunshine. Vitamin D helps control the fighter T-cell function. Fermented Cod Liver oil is a great source. I prefer Green Pastures brand. You can also get beneficial results from consuming mushrooms and egg yolks.
3. Always respect your ELDERberries
Herbs are a great way to get vitamins and nutrients that are essential to supporting your body. People often wonder if herbs are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is best to consult your care provider on these topics.
Elderberries are a good source of vitamin A and C. They also have antiviral properties. Studies are showing that it can possibly decrease the length of the flu! Elderberry syrup is a yummy way to get those elderberries in, and it can be made into gummy bears if your little one isn’t ready for the liquid form!
Echinacea can increase your white blood cell count to help fight infections. Don’t over do it though. I only take this when I am sick.
4. Cultured data
Most of your immune system stems from your gut. Having a balanced microbiome is important to staying healthy. Fermented foods are a great source of probiotics. Yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, kefir, kimchi, and pickles (insert pregnancy craving here) have tons of healthy bacteria to benefit your gut health!
5. Bone Broth
Did your family make you chicken noodle soup when you were sick as a child? There is history behind that care plan! Bone broth is filled with tons of amino acids, minerals, and nutrients that are easy to digest. It is easy to make yourself or buy in stores to use instead of stocks in soups and favorite recipes.
Why couldn’t an indecisive person make broth?
There were a bouillon different ways to do it!
It is so important to boost your immune system during flu season. What have you found works best in your home?
By: Angelina Miller
Want to research further?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15080016
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29099763
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