When the weather begins to turn chilly, you spend more time indoors where the air is recycled and you’re in closer quarters with others who may unfortunately be suffering from some form of sickness, whether it’s a cold or flu, a viral or bacterial infection or the dreaded V & D (vomiting and diarrhoea). But this year, instead of heading straight to your local pharmacy and purchasing a pack of cold and flu tablets, or simply putting up with a weakened immune system and expecting to get sick like you usually do during winter, why not begin using food as medicine?

You can prevent and fight off the cold and flu and stop viruses from becoming full blown hostile takeovers. Getting a proper night’s rest, keeping active, getting into nature and eating well are things that will all reduce your chances of stress and sickness.

However, I also suggest you stock up on these 5 super foods to support and boost your body’s immune system, so you can beat the winter sickness the healthiest way.

1. Fresh ginger

Ginger is an immune system booster and is commonly used as a natural treatment for the common cold and flu. It helps to remove mucus and nasal congestion, ease coughs, and can relieve a mild fever by inducing sweating. Ginger is capable of performing its wonders because of the varying active components it contains, making it really great for those suffering from nausea, cramps or a sore belly as it helps to relax the intestinal tract and ease inflammation. Try steeping some freshly sliced ginger in some hot filtered water and drink as a tea throughout the day.

2. Turmeric

Everyone could probably benefit from a little more turmeric in their lives. Curcumin is the active component in turmeric, it contains very powerful antiviral, antifungal, anticancer, antibacterial and incredible anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is also a powerful antioxidant that can fight free radicals which damage the immune system. In Ayurvedic medicine turmeric is also considered to be a natural antibiotic.  It’s great for those people experiencing respiratory infections and common flu symptoms. Try heating in a small saucepan and mixing together ½ tsp of Changing Habits Turmeric, with 1 cup of coconut milk, ginger, Changing Habits Cinnamon and a touch of liquid stevia, honey or pure maple syrup to taste for a beautiful warming, nourishing and healing drink.

3. Zinc rich foods    

Enough zinc in the diet is essential when it comes to preventing colds and flu as it has a very positive effect on the immune system. Zinc helps to reduce and relieve the symptoms and duration of a cold and flu. Oysters, eggs, liver, red meat and pepitas are all great sources of zinc.

4. Oregano oil

Oregano oil is a natural antibiotic; it contains powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It’s wonderful for treating sinus infections, bacterial, viral and fungal infections, inflammation, candida, bronchitis and croup. It can even alleviate gingivitis, just mix a small amount of it with coconut oil and use it for oil pulling. Click HERE if you would like to learn more about the benefits of oregano oil and how to use it.

5. Thyme

If a nasty cough and nasal congestion are some of the symptoms you’re experiencing, thyme is your answer. The herb has antibacterial and antifungal properties that fight those nasty agents that cause inflammation of the bronchi, offering fast and effective relief.  Mix and heat together a couple teaspoons of Changing Habits Dehydrated Broth with 1 cup of filtered water and add fresh thyme and some Changing Habits Seaweed Salt to taste. This can be drunk throughout the day or with meals to nourish the body and to aid in your body’s healing process.

What are your favourite ways to ward off the winter sickness?

Happy changing habits.

Jordan, Nutritionist
Changing Habits

May 2016