Sniffle-Free Fall

As a health professional, we are often asked, especially at this time of year, how to prevent and cure, or at the very least ease the unpleasant symptoms of colds and flus.

The first order of business: reinforce the immune system. How one goes about achieving this depends entirely on one's preferences. There exists really effective, side effect free modalities out there Some will opt for homeopathy, others for supplementation, naturopathy, vitamins, medicinal herbs. Some choose to adapt their food intake. And the list goes on.

1. Nutritionally, we know that food is fuel for the human body, and that includes the immune system. High quality proteins, vitamins and minerals sourced from high quality ingredients and in adequate amounts, are all essential. Eat an abundant and wide variety of colourful fruits and vegetables to fill up on antioxidants; add flax, walnuts or fish to get those all important omega-3s.
2. Exercise to stimulate your immune responsiveness, but don't overdo it: 30 minutes 3 to 5 times a week will suffice. An overly aggressive exercise regimen will have the exact opposite effect: a weakened your immune system. 
3. Upper respiratory issues coincide with the drier indoor air, usually caused by heating. This is remedied quite simply by adding humidifiers, that have to be meticulously maintained to avoid unwanted bacteria and to preserve the indoor air quality.
4. A healthy intestinal flora will boost immunity. A regular intake of probiotics, especially if taking antibiotics, is recommended. Good bacteria can be found in unpasteurized sauerkraut, kimchi, and of course, the ever popular yogurt. Pasteurization will render any bacteria inactive, and therefore ineffective in promoting a healthy intestinal flora.
5. Getting enough sleep seems like a good idea for many reasons, but did you know it also improves immunity? So hit the sack for at least 7 hours every night.
6. A little cleanliness will go a long way in preventing the spread of colds and flus. Wash hands regularly, and cover mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing.
7. And of course, take a few days off when sick: you will get better sooner while limiting the spread of germs.

Certain supplements can help when one has a cold or the flu.

1. Ginseng
2. Vitamin C
3. Echinacea
4. Goldenseal
5. Garlic (raw preferably)
6. Peppermint essential oil
7. Licorice root (soothes respiratory tract)
8. Black elderberry

There you have it. A few good tips to heal oneself and to share during your consultations.

Health!

Sheryl-Anne